commendation

noun

Etymology: From Middle English commendacioun, from Old French commendacion (“approval, praise”), from Latin commendatio (“recommendation, commendation”), from commendare.

1. The act of commending; praise; favorable representation in words; recommendation.

   “letter of commendation”

   “official commendation”

2. That which is the ground of approbation or praise.
3. A message of affection or respect; compliments; greeting.
4. An award or recognition for performance; a medal.

   “The officer received a commendation for bravery.”