To have been eligible for the award, "a person must have been a member of the Armed Forces of the United States who was present in Hawaii on December 7, 1941, and who participated in combat operations that day against Imperial Japanese military forces attacking Hawaii.
A person who was killed or wounded in that attack shall be deemed to have participated in the combat operations.
2654) anyone who would have qualified for the medal other than the requirement for membership in the Armed Forces to receive the award.
(i.e. civilians who were not killed or injured but can show that they were present in Hawaii on December 7, 1941, and participated in combat operations against the attack.)
The medal is 1.5" in diameter and is non-portable (not designed to be worn on clothing).