Prisoner of War Medallion

The Prisoner of War Medallion is a medal awarded to United Nations Space Command personnel who have been captured by an enemy force. It is an honorable decoration, though since 2525 few humans have received it. Covenant forces are notorious for not giving quarter to human prisoners, with the exception of the occasional straggler to execute for sport or when one is required to activate Forerunner technology. The Prisoner of War Medallion is a rare sight within the ranks of the UNSC, even with the forces' deployments against the considerably more honorable human insurrection.

By 2552, it was the only medal that John-117 was never awarded in his long and illustrious career in the military.

Eligibility

Master Chief Petty Officer John-117, a SPARTAN-II supersoldier, may be eligible for this medal for two distinct actions. First, during Operation: SMOKING ACES on May 1, 2531 when his command, Blue Team, was captured by United Rebel Front forces. His capture and interrogation aboard the Forerunner Dreadnought by Covenant forces in November 2552 may also qualify the Spartan to receive the medal. The Prisoner of War Medallion has yet to be bestowed upon any Spartan, though this may be due to ONI and the UNSC not wanting to admit a Spartan had been captured by the enemy.