Pac Rotors,
I don't involve myself in awards submissions, partly for the reasons that you're mentioning. Because of this, I don't know all that are out there.
I know Boeing has an awards program but I think they're restricted to missions done with Boeing products. Those seem to be decent awards as long as the criteria for the awards are known. I've heard of Sikorsky having a similiar program but have no idea what it is.
Awards from a National level of Government are always ones of which to be proud. I think with those you can state the award with your chest stuck out with pride without qualification. (MBE, Congressional Medal of Honour, DFC, etc.)
I've received a minor award from an Admiral for a night mountain rescue. The mission was difficult and it was a success so I didn't have a problem with it being singled out, but to be honest, I felt like I was getting something that my coworkers had each earned many times over, and not received.
What makes much more of a difference to me is hearing a thank you from the people we rescue. Those don't make me stick my chest out but do make it easier to show up for work the next day.
Matthew.