Final answer:
An award for an act of gallantry or meritorious service is a formal recognition, often given in the form of medals or titles, of an individual's heroism or exceptional service. These honors can be found in military and civilian contexts, with examples including the Distinguished Service Cross, the French Croix de Guerre, and the Nobel Prizes.
Step-by-step explanation:
An award bestowed on an individual for a specific act or acts of gallantry or meritorious service is a formal recognition of a person's bravery, heroism, or outstanding service, often in a military context. These awards are given in various forms, such as medals, titles, and certificates, and are an important part of military and civilian honors systems worldwide.
For instance, during World War II, filmmaker Frank Capra was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross in recognition of the contribution his films made to the war effort. Similarly, actor Jimmy Stewart received the French Croix de Guerre for his service. Mexican American soldiers exhibited notable heroism during the same war, with many receiving the Congressional Medal of Honor. An iconic example of valor is United States Marine Eugene Obregon, who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for using his body as a shield to protect his comrades.
The Nobel Prize, including the Nobel Peace Prize, represents a set of prestigious international awards given for substantial contributions and advancements in various fields, including peace efforts which may involve military individuals. These accolades are demonstrations of international recognition of exceptional achievement or bravery and have a significant impact on the legacies of their recipients.