What is oak leaf cluster?

An oak leaf cluster is a military decoration that is used to denote multiple awards of the same decoration. The oak leaf cluster is typically a small metallic device in the shape of an oak leaf, which is worn on a ribbon bar or medal to indicate additional awards of the same medal.

The oak leaf cluster is predominantly used by the United States Armed Forces, where it is used in conjunction with various medals and ribbons to indicate additional instances of the same decoration. For example, a service member who receives the Bronze Star Medal multiple times would have an oak leaf cluster attached to the ribbon bar of the medal to show that it has been awarded more than once.

The oak leaf cluster is considered a prestigious symbol of recognition, as it signifies the recipient's repeated bravery or exceptional service. It is also used by other countries' militaries, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, with slight variations in design and usage.