Regulation size Air Force Achievement medal. The Air Force Achievement Medal is awarded for outstanding achievement or meritorious service not of a nature that would not warrant the award the Commendation Medal. Since the Achievement Medal is designated as an award solely for junior personnel, it is generally only awarded to officers in the pay grade of O-4 and below and enlisted personnel below the grade of E-7. Award authority rests with local commanders, granting a broad discretion to when and for what action the Achievement Medal may be awarded.