Give it some time...I'd bet someone in the Pentagon is already dreaming that up, cloaked in the "earned in support of the war-fighters" category.

Update, maybe Hagel's not so bad after all...

Hagel to review criteria for drone medal - CNN.com


Washington (CNN) -- In an about-face, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel has decided to review the criteria of a recently created "drone award" that ranked achievements in related warfare and other modern combat skills above the most noted recognition for bravery on the battlefield.

The Distinguished Warfare Medal, which was approved last month by Hagel's predecessor, Leon Panetta, recognizes "extraordinary direct impacts on combat operations." But the honor denotes that the action is not bound by a "geographic limitation," meaning drone operators could be eligible.

Some lawmakers expressed concern the medal would be placed above those for battlefield valor, including the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star.

Don't know why there are objections to remotely piloted vehicles. I do combat twice a week sailing my RC Sailboat against enemy forces.

Personally, I do object to a fancy award for drone drivers. And I am concerned about it being misinterpreted, especially in the media. Unless you have some actual skin in the game, no award. I guess this is just another example of the society we live in today; everybody gets a trophy... However my view could be altered if the drone pilot stations were for example to be equipped with guns that will automatically fire at them if they screw up. Maybe they could recieve some other, lesser recognition such as drone driver of the month, RC ace of the base, Etc.