The medal is considered to be one of the greatest honors that can be presented for a lifetime of work in aeronautics.

Other recipients have included American and international individuals from aeronautical corporations, governments, and academia.

Since 1929 it has been given annually to persons who make notable achievements in the advancement of aeronautics.

Obverse: Spirit of St. Louis, a hot air balloon, and the nose of airship over sun burst and clouds depicted in relief; raised text on outer ring surrounding relief.

Reverse: Three stylized bird wings surrounding raised letters and inscribed text.