State military; awards criteria revised, new awards established, authority to present prescribed

SB 216 revises Alabama's military award system for National Guard members by updating eligibility criteria and establishing new honors. It creates the Governor's Cross (Alabama's highest award for exceptional service) and modifies existing awards like the Faithful Service Ribbon (now requiring 20 years of service for the Veterans Service Medal). The bill specifies that the Governor presents top awards while the Adjutant General may award lower-tier medals, including new additions like the Phenix City Civil Disturbance Medal. These changes directly affect Alabama National Guard members who qualify for recognition based on service duration, specific missions, or acts of bravery.