This medal was created for the single purpose of recognizing service during a single action (the Berlin Airlift) and was never issued again. The specific criteria for receipt of this award was established by , "Regulations governing the award of the Medal for Humane Action," of February 7, 1952. To be awarded the Medal for Humane Action a service member was required to have performed over 120 days of duty, within the geographical boundary of
Berlin, with such duty being in support of the Berlin Airlift between June 26, 1948 and September 30, 1949. Posthumous award may be made to any person who lost his life while, or as a direct result of, participating in the Berlin airlift, without regard to the length of such service, if otherwise eligible. Those so qualifying were also eligible for either the
Army of Occupation Medal, or the
Navy Occupation Service Medal, respectively with the
Berlin Airlift Device, and both medals were authorized for simultaneous award and display. ==Description==