[1] On the left side is a scroll which notes that the medal is presented to the family of a Vermont military service member whose life was given in armed conflict.

[1] The medal is a cross of white enamel with gold edges, symbolic of the 1st Vermont Brigade, and dates to the Union Army of the American Civil War.

[2] Covering the cross is a shield of inlaid enamel with gold edges, which depicts a scene of Vermont as viewed looking east from Lake Champlain towards Camel's Hump and Mount Mansfield under a clear sky, all underneath the head of a white-tailed deer buck, a scene taken from the state's coat of arms.

[1] The shield is also reminiscent of the insignia of the 172nd Infantry Regiment, a Vermont unit which fought in the Pacific Theater during World War II.

[4] In addition, the bronze star device evokes the sacrifice a single service member whose family receives the award has made on behalf of the state and nation.