The Bronze Star can be awarded for a number of reasons. The Medal will be awarded with a "V" Device for Heroism.
The Bronze Star Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States in a combat theater, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service not involving aerial flight.
So....a guy sat on his ass in a nice comfy chair, in an Air Conditioned room, with proper Toilet facilities, good food, living at home with his family in Las Vegas, can get a "combat" award that ranks above the Bronze Star awarded for Heroism under hostile fire, awarded to a guy who sleeps in his sweat stained clothes in the open, after humping up mountains in the middle of the summer, drinking putrid water, eating MRE's for months, and being gone from home for nine months or more having been shot at, mortared, attacked by RPG's, IEDs, and Suicide Bombers.
Now that is what I call.....a dirty rotten typical Air Force PC ****ty deal!