The Medal of Honor (MOH) is the United States government's highest and most prestigious military decoration that may be awarded to recognize American soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen, Space Force guardians, and coast guardsmen who have distinguished themselves by acts of valor.[1][7] The medal is normally awarded by the President of the United States, but as it is presented "in the name of the United States Congress", it is often referred to (erroneously) as the "Congressional Medal of Honor"

The Distinguished Service Cross is the second highest military award that can be given to a member of the United States Army (and previously, the United States Army Air Forces), for extreme gallantry and risk of life in actual combat with an armed enemy force. Actions that merit the Distinguished Service Cross must be of such a high degree that they are above those required for all other U.S. combat decorations but do not meet the criteria for the Medal of Honor. The Distinguished Service Cross is equivalent to the Navy Cross (Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard) and the Air Force Cross (Air Force).

The Distinguished Service Cross is the second highest military award that can be given to a member of the United States Army (and previously, the United States Army Air Forces), for extreme gallantry and risk of life in actual combat with an armed enemy force. Actions that merit the Distinguished Service Cross must be of such a high degree that they are above those required for all other U.S. combat decorations but do not meet the criteria for the Medal of Honor. The Distinguished Service Cross is equivalent to the Navy Cross (Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard) and the Air Force Cross (Air Force).

The Distinguished Service Cross is the second highest military award that can be given to a member of the United States Army (and previously, the United States Army Air Forces), for extreme gallantry and risk of life in actual combat with an armed enemy force. Actions that merit the Distinguished Service Cross must be of such a high degree that they are above those required for all other U.S. combat decorations but do not meet the criteria for the Medal of Honor. The Distinguished Service Cross is equivalent to the Navy Cross (Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard) and the Air Force Cross (Air Force).

The Distinguished Service Cross is the second highest military award that can be given to a member of the United States Army (and previously, the United States Army Air Forces), for extreme gallantry and risk of life in actual combat with an armed enemy force. Actions that merit the Distinguished Service Cross must be of such a high degree that they are above those required for all other U.S. combat decorations but do not meet the criteria for the Medal of Honor. The Distinguished Service Cross is equivalent to the Navy Cross (Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard) and the Air Force Cross (Air Force).

The Defense Distinguished Service Medal is a military decoration of the United States Department of Defense, which is presented to United States Armed Forces servicemembers for exceptionally distinguished performance of duty contributing to the national security or defense of the United States. The medal was created on July 9, 1970, by President Richard Nixon in Executive Order 11545. President Nixon awarded the first medal, on the day the Executive Order was signed, to General Earle Wheeler, who was retiring from the US Army after serving as Chief of Staff of the United States Army and then Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

It is equivalent to the United States Department of Homeland Security's Homeland Security Distinguished Service Medal.

The Distinguished Service Medal (DSM)[2] is a military decoration of the United States Army that is presented to soldiers who have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility. The performance must be such as to merit recognition for service that is clearly exceptional. The exceptional performance of normal duty will not alone justify an award of this decoration.

The Navy Distinguished Service Medal is a military decoration of the United States Navy and United States Marine Corps which was first created in 1919 and is presented to sailors and Marines to recognize distinguished and exceptionally meritorious service to the United States while serving in a duty or position of great responsibility.

The Air Force Distinguished Service Medal (AFDSM) is a military decoration of the United States Air Force and United States Space Force and is presented to airmen and guardians to recognize distinguished and exceptionally meritorious service to the United States while serving in a duty or position of great responsibility. The Air Force Distinguished Service Medal was created by an act of the United States Congress on July 6, 1960 and was first awarded in 1965. Prior to the creation of the Distinguished Service Medal in 1960, United States Air Force airmen were awarded the Army Distinguished Service Medal.

The Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal (CGDSM) is a military decoration of the United States Coast Guard that was established 4 August 1949 and is presented to coast guardsmen for "Exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility."Prior to this date, members of the Coast Guard were eligible to receive the Navy Distinguished Service Medal. The Homeland Security Distinguished Service Medal, which replaced the Transportation Distinguished Service Medal in 2002, is another higher precedence Distinguished Service Medal that may be awarded to Coast Guardsmen. The Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal is equivalent to the Army's Army Distinguished Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps' Navy Distinguished Service Medal, and the Air Force and Space Force's Air Force Distinguished Service Medal.

The Silver Star Medal (SSM) is the United States Armed Forces' third-highest military decoration for valor in combat. The Silver Star Medal is awarded primarily to members of the United States Armed Forces for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States.

The Silver Star Medal (SSM) is the United States Armed Forces' third-highest military decoration for valor in combat. The Silver Star Medal is awarded primarily to members of the United States Armed Forces for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States.

The Defense Superior Service Medal (DSSM) is a military decoration of the United States Department of Defense, which is presented to United States Armed Forces service members who perform superior meritorious service in a position of significant responsibility.

The Surgeon General’s Medallion is the third highest award of the Public Health Service and the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. The medal is awarded in the name of the United States Surgeon General for actions of exceptional achievement to the cause of public health and medicine. It is awarded by the Surgeon General of the United States.

The exact award criteria for the Surgeon General’s Medal are open to the interpretation of the sitting U.S. Surgeon general. Typically, the Surgeon General’s Medal is presented for such actions as medical breakthroughs in public medicine, disease prevention and control, or exceptional service in a senior position of the Department of Health and Human Services.

Due to the prestige of the Surgeon General’s Medallion, the award is authorized for wear on active duty uniforms of the United States armed forces. When worn on the uniform of a member of the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, the ribbon is worn after the Public Health Service Meritorious Service Medal and before the Department of Commerce Silver Medal, the Surgeon General's Exemplary Service Medal and the Legion of Merit.

The Legion of Merit Officer (LOM) is a military award of the United States Armed Forces that is given for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements. The decoration is issued to members of the eight uniformed services of the United States as well as to military and political figures of foreign governments.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Lone Star Distinguished Service Medal is awarded to a member of the military forces of this state, another state, or the United States for exceptionally outstanding achievement or service to this state in performance of a duty of great responsibility while serving with the Texas military forces for whom the department receives a letter of recommendation for award of the Lone Star Distinguished Service Medal that: gives an account of the exceptional achievement or service; and includes facts and photographs, and extracts from official documents to support and amplify the facts.

The Legion of Merit (LOM) is a military award of the United States Armed Forces that is given for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements. The decoration is issued to members of the eight uniformed services of the United States as well as to military and political figures of foreign governments.

The Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) is a military decoration of the United States Armed Forces. The medal was established on July 2, 1926, and is currently awarded to any persons who, after April 6, 1917, distinguish themselves by single acts of heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. Both heroism and extraordinary achievement are entirely distinctive, involving operations that are not routine. The medal may be awarded to friendly foreign military members in ranks equivalent to U.S. Pay Grade of O-6 and below, in actual combat in support operations.

The Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) is a military decoration of the United States Armed Forces. The medal was established on July 2, 1926, and is currently awarded to any persons who, after April 6, 1917, distinguish themselves by single acts of heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. Both heroism and extraordinary achievement are entirely distinctive, involving operations that are not routine. The medal may be awarded to friendly foreign military members in ranks equivalent to U.S. Pay Grade of O-6 and below, in actual combat in support operations.

The Soldier's Medal is an individual decoration of the United States Army. It was introduced as Section 11 of the Air Corps Act, passed by the Congress of the United States on July 2, 1926. The Army' Soldier's Medal is equivalent to the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, the Air Force and Space Force's Airman's Medal, and the Coast Guard Medal. Prior to the creation of the Airman's Medal in 1960, airmen were awarded the Soldier's Medal.

The Navy and Marine Corps Medal is the highest non-combat decoration awarded for heroism by the United States Department of the Navy to members of the United States Navy and United States Marine Corps. The medal was established by an act of Congress on 7 August 1942, and is authorized under 10 U.S.C. § 6246.

The Navy and Marine Corps Medal is the equivalent of the Army's Soldier's Medal, Air Force and Space Force's Airman's Medal, and the Coast Guard Medal.

The Airman’s Medal (AmnM) is a military award and decoration of the United States Air Force and United States Space Force to distinguish themselves by heroism involving voluntary risk of their life not involving actual combat with an armed enemy of the United States. The medal was established on 6 July 1960 and is awarded to those service members or those of a friendly nation who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force.[2][3] The performance must have involved personal hazard or danger.

The Coast Guard Medal is a decoration of the United States military that is awarded to any service member who, while serving in any capacity with the United States Coast Guard, distinguishes themselves by heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy. For the decoration to be awarded, an individual must have performed a voluntary act of heroism in the face of great personal danger or of such a magnitude that it stands out distinctly above normal expectations.

The Bronze Star Medal (BSM) is a United States Armed Forces decoration awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces for either heroic achievement, heroic service, meritorious achievement, or meritorious service in a combat zone.

The Bronze Star Medal (BSM) is a United States Armed Forces decoration awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces for either heroic achievement, heroic service, meritorious achievement, or meritorious service in a combat zone.

The Purple Heart (PH) is a United States military decoration awarded in the name of the President to those wounded or killed while serving, on or after April 5, 1917, with the U.S. military. With its forerunner, the Badge of Military Merit, which took the form of a heart made of purple cloth, the Purple Heart is the oldest military award still given to U.S. military members – the only earlier award being the obsolete Fidelity Medallion. The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor is located in New Windsor, New York.

The Purple Heart (PH) is a United States military decoration awarded in the name of the President to those wounded or killed while serving, on or after April 5, 1917, with the U.S. military. With its forerunner, the Badge of Military Merit, which took the form of a heart made of purple cloth, the Purple Heart is the oldest military award still given to U.S. military members – the only earlier award being the obsolete Fidelity Medallion. The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor is located in New Windsor, New York.

The Defense Meritorious Service Medal (DMSM) is an award bestowed upon members of the United States military by the United States Department of Defense. In the order of precedence of the United States Armed Forces, it is worn between the Purple Heart and the Meritorious Service Medal. The medal is awarded in the name of the Secretary of Defense to members of the Armed Forces who, while serving in a joint activity, distinguish themselves by non-combat outstanding achievement or meritorious service, but not of a degree to warrant award of the Defense Superior Service Medal.

The Defense Meritorious Service Medal (DMSM) is an award bestowed upon members of the United States military by the United States Department of Defense. In the order of precedence of the United States Armed Forces, it is worn between the Purple Heart and the Meritorious Service Medal. The medal is awarded in the name of the Secretary of Defense to members of the Armed Forces who, while serving in a joint activity, distinguish themselves by non-combat outstanding achievement or meritorious service, but not of a degree to warrant award of the Defense Superior Service Medal.

The Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) is a military award presented to members of the United States Armed Forces who distinguished themselves by outstanding meritorious achievement or service to the United States subsequent to January 16, 1969.

The MSM was previously awarded as a decoration for achievement during peacetime, but effective September 11, 2001 this decoration may also be bestowed in lieu of the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious achievement in a designated combat theater.[5] Normally, the acts or services rendered must be comparable to that required for the Legion of Merit but in a duty of lesser, though considerable, responsibility.

 

The Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) is a military award presented to members of the United States Armed Forces who distinguished themselves by outstanding meritorious achievement or service to the United States subsequent to January 16, 1969.

The MSM was previously awarded as a decoration for achievement during peacetime, but effective September 11, 2001 this decoration may also be bestowed in lieu of the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious achievement in a designated combat theater.[5] Normally, the acts or services rendered must be comparable to that required for the Legion of Merit but in a duty of lesser, though considerable, responsibility.

The Air Medal (AM) is a military decoration of the United States Armed Forces. It was created in 1942 and is awarded for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.

The Air Medal (AM) is a military decoration of the United States Armed Forces. It was created in 1942 and is awarded for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.

The Aerial Achievement Medal (AAM) is a decoration of the United States Air Force which was established in 1988. The decoration is intended to recognize the contributions of aircrew members who would, otherwise, not be qualified for the award of the Air Medal.

The decoration is awarded in the name of the Secretary of the Air Force and is presented to members of the United States military or civilian personnel, while serving in a capacity with the U.S. Air Force, who distinguish themselves by sustained meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight. The achievements must be accomplished with distinction above and beyond that normally expected of professional airmen.

The Civilian Aerial Achievement Medal is awarded to civilian personnel in the name of the Secretary of the Air Force. It is bestowed upon personnel who distinguish themselves by sustained meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight. It must be and achievement that is above what is expect of a professional airman. The decoration is intended to recognize the achievements of air crewmen who are not eligible for the Air Medal.

The Joint Service Commendation Medal (JSCM) was authorized on June 25, 1963 and is awarded in the name of the Secretary of Defense to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, after January 1, 1963, distinguished themselves by meritorious achievement or service in a joint duty capacity.

This award is intended for senior service on a joint military staff and is senior in precedence to service-specific Commendation Medals. As such, it is worn above the service Commendation Medals on a military uniform.

The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States other than General Officers who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Army after December 6, 1941, distinguished themselves by heroism, meritorious achievement or meritorious service. The medal may be awarded to a member of another branch of the U.S. Armed Forces or of a friendly foreign nation who, after June 1, 1962, distinguishes themselves by an act of heroism, extraordinary achievement, or significant meritorious service which has been of mutual benefit to the friendly nation and the United States.

This decoration was previously awarded only by flag rank operational commanders, requiring the signature of an admiral or general officer in the grade of O-7, allowing interpretation of the criteria for which the medal may be awarded. Authority to award this decoration was later expanded to captains and colonels in the grade of O-6 currently holding operational command as a commodore, carrier air wing commander or commanding officer.

This decoration was previously awarded only by flag rank operational commanders, requiring the signature of an admiral or general officer in the grade of O-7, allowing interpretation of the criteria for which the medal may be awarded. Authority to award this decoration was later expanded to captains and colonels in the grade of O-6 currently holding operational command as a commodore, carrier air wing commander or commanding officer.

The U.S. Coast Guard awards a separate Coast Guard Commendation Medal, with a ribbon similar in design to that of its Navy and Marine Corps counterpart. Initially established as the Coast Guard Commendation Ribbon in 1947, it was redesignated as the Coast Guard Commendation Medal in 1959. Criteria for its award has paralleled that of the Navy and Marine Corps.

The Joint Service Achievement Medal (JSAM) was created in 1983. This award was considered a Department of Defense decoration senior to the service department Achievement Medals.

Effective 11 September 2001, the Army Achievement Medal may be awarded in a combat area. Since this change over sixty thousand Army Achievement Medals have been awarded in theaters of operations such as Iraq and Afghanistan.

The United States Navy and U.S. Marine Corps' version of the Achievement Medal. The U.S. Navy was the first branch of the U.S. Armed Forces to award such a medal, doing so in 1961, when it was dubbed the "Secretary of the Navy Commendation for Achievement Medal." This title was shortened in 1967 to simply, the "Navy Achievement Medal." On August 19, 1994, to recognize those of the United States Marine Corps who had received the Navy Achievement Medal, the name of the decoration was officially changed to the "Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal". The award is still often referred to in shorthand speech as the "Navy Achievement Medal" or "NAM" for short.

The Achievement Medal is a military decoration of the United States Armed Forces. The Achievement Medal was first proposed as a means to recognize outstanding achievement or meritorious service of military personnel who were not eligible to receive the higher Commendation Medal or the Meritorious Service Medal.

The Achievement Medal is a military decoration of the United States Armed Forces. The Achievement Medal was first proposed as a means to recognize outstanding achievement or meritorious service of military personnel who were not eligible to receive the higher Commendation Medal or the Meritorious Service Medal

The Combat Action Ribbon, is a high precedence United States Navy, United States Coast Guard, and United States Marine Corps military decoration awarded to United States sea service members "who have actively participated in ground or surface combat." Coast Guardsmen, Navy sailors, and Marines active in clandestine, stealth or special operations are deemed eligible for consideration of the award

The Air Force Combat Action Medal (AFCAM) is decoration of the United States Air Force and United States Space Force to recognize airmen and guardians for active participation in ground or air combat.

For an airman or guardian to wear the AFCAM, members must provide proper documentation to their commander which includes a narrative explanation of the airman or guardian's involvement in combat activities to the first O-6 (Colonel) in their operational chain of command on an AF Form 3994. The application will be processed through the chain of command and eventually be approved or disapproved by the Commander of Air Force Forces (COMAFFOR).

The Commandant's Letter of Commendation Ribbon is a personal military award of the United States Coast Guard. The award was established in March 1979 by Admiral John B. Hayes.

The Commandant's Letter of Commendation Ribbon is awarded to any member of the Coast Guard who receives a Letter of Commendation from the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard.

The Army citation was established by Executive Order 9075 on 26 February 1942, superseded by Executive Order 9396 on 2 December 1943, which authorized the Distinguished Unit Citation. As with other Army unit citations, the PUC is in a larger frame than other ribbons, and is worn above the right pocket. All members of the unit may wear the decoration, whether or not they personally participated in the acts for which the unit was cited; only those members assigned to the unit at the time of the action cited may wear the decoration as a permanent award. For both the Army and Air Force, the emblem is a solid blue ribbon enclosed in a gold frame.

The Air Force PUC was adopted from the Army Distinguished Unit Citation after the Air Force became a separate military branch in 1947. By Executive Order 10694, dated Jan. 10, 1957 the Air Force redesignated the Distinguished Unit Citation as the Presidential Unit Citation. The Air Force PUC is the same color and design as the Army PUC but slightly smaller, so that it can be worn in alignment with other Air Force and Space Force ribbons on the left pocket following personal awards. As with the Army, all members of a receiving unit may wear the decoration while assigned to it, but only those assigned to the unit at the time of the action cited may wear the decoration as a permanent award; or if any member of a receiving unit had it at their last duty station prior to being either discharged or retired, they may continue to wear the decoration as prescribed.

Citations "to Naval and Marine Corps Units for Outstanding Performance in Action" was established by Executive Order 9050 on 6 February 1942.

The Navy version has navy blue, yellow, and red horizontal stripes, and is the only Navy ribbon having horizontal stripes.[10] To distinguish between the two versions of the Presidential Unit Citation, the Navy version which is more often referred to simply as the Presidential Unit Citation, is referred to as the Navy Presidential Unit Citation and sometimes as the "Navy and Marine Corps Presidential Unit Citation".

United States Coast Guard units may be awarded either the Navy or Coast Guard version of the Presidential Unit Citation, depending on which service the Coast Guard was supporting when the citation action was performed.

The current decoration is known as the "Department of Homeland Security Presidential Unit Citation". The original Coast Guard Presidential Unit Citation was established under the authority of Executive Order 10694 (signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on January 10, 1957), and amended by Section 74 of Executive Order 13286 (signed by President George W. Bush on February 28, 2003) to transfer the award of the USCG PUC to the Secretary of Homeland Security.

The Joint Meritorious Unit Award (JMUA) is a US military award that was established on June 4, 1981, by Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger and was implemented by Department of Defense Directive 1348.27 dated July 22, 1982. The Joint Meritorious Unit Award was made retroactive to January 23, 1979.

Authorized by the Secretary of Defense on June 10, 1981, this award was originally called the Department of Defense Meritorious Unit Award. It is awarded in the name of the Secretary of Defense to joint activities for meritorious achievement or service, superior to that which is normally expected, for actions in the following situations; combat with an armed enemy of the United States, a declared national emergency, or under extraordinary circumstances that involve national interests

The Army Valorous Unit Citation (VUA) is awarded to units of the United States Army who show "extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy of the United States of America". The award was created in 1966 but could be awarded for actions dating back to August 3rd, 1963. It is the 2nd highest unit award of the U.S. Army and is considered the unit equivalent of a Silver Star Medal.

Navy and U.S. Marine Corps commands may recommend any Navy or Marine Corps unit for the NUC that has distinguished itself by outstanding heroism in action against the enemy, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Presidential Unit Citation. A unit must have performed service of a character comparable to that which would merit the award of a Silver Star Medal for heroism, or a Legion of Merit for non-combat meritorious service to an individual. Normal performance of duty or participation in many combat missions does not, in itself, justify the award. An award will not be made to a unit for actions of one or more of its component parts, unless the unit performed uniformly as a team, in a manner justifying collective recognition.

The Gallant Unit Citation (GUC), a United States Air Force unit award, was approved in March 2004 and is awarded to any Air Force unit which distinguishes itself by extraordinary heroism while engaged in armed combat with an enemy force on or after 11 September 2001.

The medal features the Air Force Coat of Arms surrounded by blue enamel and thirteen stars; it is encircled by an inscription reading "UNITED STATES AIR FORCE." The ribbon is divided into two equal sections of yellow and blue with thin vertical stripes of red, white, and blue on each edge and in the center.

The Coast Guard Unit Commendation is the highest peacetime unit award that may be awarded to military commands of the United States Coast Guard. The decoration was first created in 1963 and is presented to members of any Coast Guard unit that distinguishes itself by valorous or extremely meritorious service, not involving combat, but in support of Coast Guard operations.

It may also be awarded to units and personnel of the other U.S. armed forces, typically when in support of operations where the Coast Guard is the lead service. One example was the award of the commendation with Operational Distinguishing Device to rescue squadrons of the U.S. Air Force and maritime patrol squadrons and helicopter squadrons of the U.S. Navy, when said units assisted the Coast Guard during search and recovery operations following the January 1986 loss of the NASA Space Shuttle Challenger.

The Army Meritorious Unit Award (MUC, MUA) is awarded to units of the United States Army who show exceptional meritorious conduct in their performance of duties for a period of at least 6 months during conflict with an armed enemy.

The Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation (MUC) is a unit award of the United States Navy presented to U.S. Navy and Marine Corps units. The award is presented for service that is preformed with character that would be comparable to the Bronze Star Medal.

The Air Force Meritorious Unit Award (MUA) is used to recognize organizations for their outstanding achievements or service in direct support of combat operations. That service must be for at least 90 continuous during a period of operations against an armed enemy. The award was created in March of 2004 and is retroactive to September 11th, 2001.

The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Award (MUA) is used to recognize organizations within the United States Coast Guard for their "meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service, heroic deeds or valorous actions". Created in 1973, additional awards are represented by wearing a 5/16th of an inch Gold Star device on the service ribbon.

The Army Superior Unit Award (ASUA) is a peacetime award giving to United States Army units who display "outstanding meritorious performance of a difficult and challenging mission carried out under extraordinary circumstances." 

The Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (AFOUA) is bestowed upon any command of the U.S. Air Force, including Reserve and National Guard units. First created in 1954, it is presented to units that perform exceptional meritorious service, accomplish acts of outstanding achievement, excel in combat operations against an armed enemy or conduct themselves with distinction while performing military operations involving, or exposed to, a hostile action by an opposing foreign force.

The Coast Guard Meritorious Team Commendation (CGMTC) is a unit award of the United States Coast Guard. The 2nd lowest in precedence for the Coast Guard unit awards, it is presented to lower level Coast Guard commands who preform exceptional actions. It is considered the unit equivalent of a Commandant's Letter of Commendation. Created in December of 1993, additional awards are represented by wearing a 5/16th of an inch Gold Star Device on the service ribbon. An Operational "O" device is also approved when the award is earned under field operating conditions.

The Navy E Ribbon (NAVE) or the Battle "E" ribbon is presented to crew members of any United States Navy vessel that has won a battle efficiency competition. A unit award, this ribbon was created July 1st, 1974 the ribbon replaces a patch that, prior to the ribbons creation, was sewn onto the right sleeve. The first award of the "E" Ribbon is represented by wearing a Silver E device on the center of the service ribbon. Additional awards are represented by wearing a 2nd and 3rd E device until the 4th award, when a wreathed E is worn. After the 4th award, no additional devices are approved, and only the silver wreathed E is worn.

The Air Force Organizational Excellence Award (AFOEA) is presented to internal units within larger organizations of the Air Force. The lowest ranking of the Air Force unit awards, it used to recognize excellence in small units such as numbered wings, groups or squadrons. Additional awards are represented by wearing a Oak Leaf Cluster device on the service ribbon. A Valor or "V" device is also authorized in certain circumstances.

The Coast Guard E ribbon (CGE) is a unit award of the United States Coast Guard. First created in September of 1990, it is presented to the Officers and crew of any Coast Guard cutter that earns the Operational Excellence Award during annual refresher training. Additional awards are represented with a 5/16th inch gold star device.

The Coast Guard Bicentennial Unit Commendation was a unit award of the United States Coast Guard which was awarded to all active, reserve, auxiliary, and civilian personnel of the Coast Guard for service from March 1989 to October 1989.

The award was issued only to those whose service up to the issuance date was honorable and it could be issued to members of other services who were assigned to the Coast Guard and served in that period.

The Surgeon General's Exemplary Service Medal is an award of the US Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. Administered by the Office of the Surgeon General, the medal is awarded at the sole discretion of the Surgeon General of the United States. The 4th highest in precedence, it is considered equal to a Legion of Merit award in the military branches of the uniformed services. Considered a civilian award it is approved for wear on all military uniforms.

The Gold Lifesaving Medal and Silver Lifesaving Medal are U.S. decorations issued by the United States Coast Guard. The awards were established by Act of Congress, 20 June 1874; later authorized by 14 U.S.C. § 500. These decorations are two of the oldest medals in the United States and were originally established at the Department of Treasury as Lifesaving Medals First and Second Class. The Department of the Treasury initially gave the award, but today the United States Coast Guard awards it through the Department of Homeland Security. They are not classified as military decorations, and may be awarded to any person.

The Gold Lifesaving Medal and Silver Lifesaving Medal are U.S. decorations issued by the United States Coast Guard. The awards were established by Act of Congress, 20 June 1874; later authorized by 14 U.S.C. § 500. These decorations are two of the oldest medals in the United States and were originally established at the Department of Treasury as Lifesaving Medals First and Second Class. The Department of the Treasury initially gave the award, but today the United States Coast Guard awards it through the Department of Homeland Security. They are not classified as military decorations, and may be awarded to any person.

The Prisoner of War (POW) Medal is a decoration presented by the Unites States Armed Forces to recognize members of the U.S. military who have been made prisoner or held captive by opposing forces after April 5, 1917. To be eligible, the individual must have demonstrated upstanding character while in captivity. Subsequent decorations the Prisoner of War Medal are denoted by Silver Stars worn as attachments on the service medal.

The Army Good Conduct Medal (AGCM) is given to any enlisted U.S. Army personnel who carry out three consecutive years of "honorable and faithful service." Such service insinuates that a standard enlistment was achieved without any non-judicial punishments, disciplinary infractions, or court martial offenses. If a service member commits an offense, the three-year mark "resets" and a service member needs to complete an additional three years of discipline free service before the Good Conduct can be recognized. During times of war, the AGCM can be granted for one year of faithful service. The medal can also be granted posthumously, to any soldier killed in the line of duty. To define additional decorations of the award, a series of Good Conduct Knots are dispensed as attachments to the decoration. Service for the AGCM needs to be executed on active duty and the medal is not awarded to personnel of the Army reserve or National Guard who are not federalized to active service. For the Reserve and Guard personnel who satisfactorily accomplish annual training and drill duty, however, the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal may be granted in lieu.

The Good Conduct Medal is one of the oldest military awards of the United States Armed Forces. The U.S. Navy's variant of the Good Conduct Medal was established in 1869, the Marine Corps version in 1896, the Coast Guard version in 1923, the Army version in 1941, and the Air Force version in 1963; the Air Force Good Conduct Medal was temporarily discontinued from February 2006 to February 2009, followed by its subsequent reinstatement.

The Good Conduct Medal is one of the oldest military awards of the United States Armed Forces. The U.S. Navy's variant of the Good Conduct Medal was established in 1869, the Marine Corps version in 1896, the Coast Guard version in 1923, the Army version in 1941, and the Air Force version in 1963; the Air Force Good Conduct Medal was temporarily discontinued from February 2006 to February 2009, followed by its subsequent reinstatement.

The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal (MCGCM) is a decoration presented to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Enlistment bars displaying the period of time for which the award was presented were used until 1953 when subsequent awards became denoted by Service Stars worn on the award medal

The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal (MCGCM) is a decoration presented to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service.  Enlistment bars displaying the period of time for which the award was presented were used until 1953 when subsequent awards became denoted by Service Stars worn on the award medal.

The Air Force Good Conduct Medal (AFGCM) is granted to any enlisted personnel of the U.S. military (except U.S. Air Force personnel after 2006) who completes three consecutive years of "honorable and faithful service." This type of service insinuates that a standard enlistment was completed without any non-judicial punishments, disciplinary infractions, or court martial offenses. If an offense is committed by a service member then the three-year mark "resets" and a service member must complete an additional three years of discipline free service before the Good Conduct may be accredited. The AFGCM was created June 1st, 1963 and then in October 2005 a decision was made to discontinue the medal with the justification that good conduct is presumed standard, not an exceptional occurrence worthy of recognition. Additional decorations for the AFGCM are denoted by oak leaf clusters.

The Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal (CGGCM) is bestowed upon any enlisted Coast Guardsmen who has three consecutive years of honorable service. This service must be free of disciplinary actions, such as non-judicial punishments or courts martial offenses. If such an offense occurs, the three year periods begins again following the date of the offense.

First issued in 1923, the Good Conduct award is one of the oldest awards of the Coast Guard. Originally subsequent awards of the medal were displayed with enlistment bars as an attachment, however in 1966 this was changed so that additional awards are displayed with bronze star devices.

The Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (ARCAM) is a Good Conduct Medal that is issued to a member of the United States Army Reserve. The ARCAM was originally required that a reservist completed four (4) years of honorable service as an active member of a reserve unit, however in 1995 that time requirement was lowered to three (3) years of qualified service. This change was not retroactive. Additional awards of this medal are represented by a bronze oak leaf cluster.

If a soldier begins service full time on federal service the become ineligible for the award and become eligible for the Army Good Conduct medal. The medal may be awarded to all enlisted soldiers, warrant and commissioned officers up to and including the grade of Colonel.

The Naval Reserve Meritorious Service Medal (NRMS) is a decoration presented by the United States Armed Forces to recognize enlisted members (officers are not eligible) of the Reserve or National Guard who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before 1997 required four years of service. The Naval Reserve Meritorious Service Medal differs from the standard Navy Good Conduct Medal in that the reserve version is bestowed for reserve duties such as drills, annual training and active duty for either training or operational support to the active duty force. Subsequent awards are denoted by Service Stars worn on the award medal. After 10 years of service, both officers and enlisted members are eligible for the Armed Forces Reserve Medal.

The Selected Marine Corps Reserve (SMCR) Medal is a decoration presented by the U.S. military to recognize members of the Marine Corps Reserve who have met specific service requirements as of July 1, 1925. To be eligible for this medal, service personnel must have attended with an SMCR unit at least 90% of all scheduled drills in a year for three consecutive years, including duty in an Individual Mobilization Augmentee (IMA) billet in Training Category A. Prior to April 24, 1961, 80% attendance at all scheduled drills was required to be eligible for the medal. Service Members may also be eligible if they attend an IMA billet in Training Category A for three consecutive field training periods. Active Duty for training may be authorized to be performed in replacement of regular annual field training periods. It is noted that between the dates of July 1, 1925 to April 24, 1961, medal eligibility required four consecutive years of service. Successive awards of the Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal are indicated by bronze service stars worn as attachments on the award medal.

The Air Reserve Meritorious Service Medal (ARMS) is granted to Air Force Reservists for commendable behavior, efficiency, and reliability during three years of enlisted and active service. Additional awards of the Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service Medal are denoted with oak leaf clusters. The ARMS was created in 1964 as the "Air Force Reserve Ribbon", then in 1971 the decoration evolved into a full sized medal with its current name. Between the years of 1965 and 1974 this awards was granted to personnel with four years of distinguished reserve service, then in 1975 the time limit was lowered to three years.

The Coast Guard Reserve Good Conduct Medal (CGRGC) is a Good Conduct medal that is bestowed upon any enlisted Coast Guard Reservist who has three consecutive years of honorable service. This service must be free of disciplinary actions, such as non-judicial punishments or courts martial offenses. If such an offense occurs, the three year periods begins again following the date of the offense.

First issued in 1963, the Coast Guard Reserve Good Conduct award is only awarded to enlisted reservists and Warrant and Commissioned Officers are not eligible. Subsequent awards are displayed with bronze star devices.

The Fleet Marine Force Ribbon (FMF) is an award of the United States Navy that denotes that an eligible Navy service member (either enlisted or officer) has earned the Fleet Marine Force designation. Created in 1984 the ribbon was used to distinguish Navy personnel who were serving with qualified Marine Corps deployable units. It was made obsolete on October 1st, 2006 after the Fleet Marine Force Enlisted Warfare Specialist and Fleet Marine Force Qualified Officer Insignia were created. However, if the ribbon had previously been earned it is still approved for wear.

The Outstanding Airman of the Year Ribbon is an award of the United States Air Force that is presented to each of the 12 airmen selected annually for the Outstanding Airman of the Year Award. Created in 1968, the Airman is allowed to wear the Outstanding Airman badge for one year, and the ribbon is added to their rack as a permanent award. Additional awards are represented by wearing a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster device on the service ribbon.

The Air Force Recognition Ribbon (AFREC) was created in 1980 in order for Airmen to display that they had received a "non-portable" award. Examples of this would be trophy, plaque or award that does not have an accompanying ribbon.

The Marine Corps China Service Medal (CHISM) is a decoration presented to members of United States Marine Corps who served in China from July 7, 1937 - September 7, 1939 or served from September 2, 1945 - April 1, 1957. Service members who served in the Asiatic-Pacific area from September 2, 1945 - March 2, 1946 may be eligible for the award if they did not receive the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal. Individuals who participated in operations during both time periods are authorized to wear a bronze Service Star on their award ribbon.

The National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) is a service award of the United States Armed Forces established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1953. It is awarded to every member of the US Armed Forces who has served during any one of four specified periods of armed conflict or national emergency from 1950 to the present. Combat or "in theater" service is not a requirement for the award.

The Navy Expeditionary Medal (NEM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have landed on foreign shores and participated in operations against enemy forces. Individuals also may be eligible who served in a mission that is considered by an authority to warrant this award. It is retroactive to February 12, 1874. The Navy Expedition Medal and the Armed Forces Expedition Medal are not authorized to be awarded for the same event and service members who qualify for both must decide which medal they prefer. Subsequent awards are denoted by Service Stars worn on the award ribbon.

The Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal (MCEM) is a decoration presented to recognize marine Corps members who have landed on foreign shores and participated in operations against enemy forces. Individuals may also be eligible who served in a mission, where no other medal was given and is considered by an authority to warrant this award. The Marine Corps Expedition Medal and the Armed Forces Expedition Medal are not authorized to be awarded for the same event and service members who qualify for both must decide which medal they prefer. Subsequent awards are denoted by Service Stars worn on the award ribbon and the Wake Island Device is issued with the medal when it was awarded for participation in the defense of Wake Island at the commencement of World War II.

The Antarctica Service Medal (ASM) was established by the United States Congress on July 7, 1960, under Public Law 600 of the 86th Congress. The medal was intended as a military award to replace several commemorative awards which had been issued for previous Antarctica expeditions from 1928 to 1941.

The Antarctica Service Medal is considered an award of the United States Armed Forces, issued in the name of the U.S. Department of Defense, and is authorized for wear on active duty uniforms. The medal may also be awarded to U.S. civilians and citizens of foreign nations who participate in a U.S. Antarctic expedition on the continent at the invitation of a participating U.S. agency.

The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (AFEM) is a military award of the United States Armed Forces, which was first created in 1961 by Executive Order of President John Kennedy. The medal is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participated in U.S. military operations, U.S. operations in direct support of the United Nations, or U.S. operations of assistance for friendly foreign nations.

The Coast Guard Arctic Service Medal was established on 20 May 1976 by Commandant of the Coast Guard Admiral Owen W. Siler. The medal is awarded to any member of the United States Coast Guard who performs twenty one days of consecutive duty afloat or ashore north of the Arctic Circle. Air crews flying in and out of areas north of the Arctic Circle may also be awarded the medal for 21 days of non-consecutive service. The medal depicts a polar bear under the North Star, while the reverse side carries the Coast Guard Shield.

The Afghanistan Campaign Medal (ACM) is a military award of the United States Armed Forces which was created by Executive Order 13363 of President George W. Bush on November 29, 2004, and became available for general distribution in June 2005. The medal was designed by the U.S. Army Institute of Heraldry.

The Afghanistan Campaign Medal is awarded to any member of the United States military who has performed duty within the borders of Afghanistan (or its airspace) for a period of thirty consecutive days or sixty non-consecutive days. The medal is retroactive to October 24, 2001, and is active until a date to be determined. Personnel who have been engaged in combat with an enemy force, or personnel who have been wounded in combat within Afghanistan, may receive the ACM regardless of the number of days spent within the country. The medal is also awarded posthumously to any service member who dies in the line of duty within Afghanistan, including from non-combat injuries such as accidents and mishaps

The Afghanistan Campaign Medal (ACM) is a military award of the United States Armed Forces which was created by Executive Order 13363 of President George W. Bush on November 29, 2004, and became available for general distribution in June 2005. The medal was designed by the U.S. Army Institute of Heraldry.

The Afghanistan Campaign Medal is awarded to any member of the United States military who has performed duty within the borders of Afghanistan (or its airspace) for a period of thirty consecutive days or sixty non-consecutive days. The medal is retroactive to October 24, 2001, and is active until a date to be determined. Personnel who have been engaged in combat with an enemy force, or personnel who have been wounded in combat within Afghanistan, may receive the ACM regardless of the number of days spent within the country. The medal is also awarded posthumously to any service member who dies in the line of duty within Afghanistan, including from non-combat injuries such as accidents and mishaps

The Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal is a United States Department of Defense service award and campaign medal. The medal was established by Executive Order on 30 March 2016 by U.S. President Barack Obama. The medal may be awarded to members of the U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard, for service in Iraq, Syria, or contiguous waters or airspace retroactively from 15 June 2014 to a date yet to be determined. Service members who were awarded the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal for service that is now covered by the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal may make application to be awarded the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal in lieu of the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal. No service member will be entitled to the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal and Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal for the same action, time period, or service.

The Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal is a United States Department of Defense service award and campaign medal. The medal was established by Executive Order on 30 March 2016 by U.S. President Barack Obama. The medal may be awarded to members of the U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard, for service in Iraq, Syria, or contiguous waters or airspace retroactively from 15 June 2014 to a date yet to be determined. Service members who were awarded the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal for service that is now covered by the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal may make application to be awarded the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal in lieu of the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal. No service member will be entitled to the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal and Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal for the same action, time period, or service.

The Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (GWOT-EM) is a United States Armed Forces award created by George W. Bush on 12 March 2003, through Executive Order 13289. The medal recognizes those military service members who have deployed overseas in direct service to the War on Terror from 11 September 2001 to a date to be determined. Prior to 30 April 2005, the medal was awarded for service within Iraq and Afghanistan, but has been replaced with the Iraq Campaign Medal and Afghanistan Campaign Medal and now serves primarily as recognition for personnel who have deployed in support of the War on Terror to locations beyond Iraq and Afghanistan. In a similar fashion the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal is now issued instead for service in the fight against ISIS, with eligibility retroactive to 15 June 2014.

The Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (GWOT-EM) is a United States Armed Forces award created by George W. Bush on 12 March 2003, through Executive Order 13289. The medal recognizes those military service members who have deployed overseas in direct service to the War on Terror from 11 September 2001 to a date to be determined. Prior to 30 April 2005, the medal was awarded for service within Iraq and Afghanistan, but has been replaced with the Iraq Campaign Medal and Afghanistan Campaign Medal and now serves primarily as recognition for personnel who have deployed in support of the War on Terror to locations beyond Iraq and Afghanistan. In a similar fashion the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal is now issued instead for service in the fight against ISIS, with eligibility retroactive to 15 June 2014.

The Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (GWOT-SM) is a military award of the United States Armed Forces which was created through Executive Order 13289 on 12 March 2003, by President George W. Bush. The medal recognizes those military service members who have supported operations to counter terrorism in the War on Terror from 11 September 2001, to a date yet to be determined.

Due to the broadly-defined awarding criterion of "support duty", the GWOT-SM is a quasi-automatically-awarded medal similar to the National Defense Service Medal (NDSM), with the primary difference being that the NDSM is awarded instantly upon entering military service, whereas the GWOT-SM is awarded after thirty days of post-training active service.

The Korea Defense Service Medal (KDSM) is a military service medal of the United States Armed Forces that was first created in 2002 when it was signed into law by President George W. Bush. The bill to create the proposal was introduced and championed by Rep. Elton Gallegly (R-CA) and Sen. Jeff Bingaman (D-NM). Several designs for the medal were proposed. 

The Armed Forces Service Medal (AFSM) is a military award of the United States military that was created on January 11, 1996, by President Bill Clinton under Executive Order 12985. The AFSM is a deployed service medal that is presented to those service members who engage in "significant activity" for which no other U.S. campaign or service medal is authorized.

The Humanitarian Service Medal (HSM) is a military service medal of the United States Armed Forces which was created on January 19, 1977 by President Gerald Ford under Executive Order 11965. The medal may be awarded to any member of the United States military (including Reserve and National Guard members) who distinguishes himself or herself by meritorious participation in specified military acts or operations of a humanitarian nature.

The Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM) is a military award which was created under Executive Order 12830 by George H. W. Bush on January 9, 1993. The medal was designed by the Institute of Heraldry and was first issued in December 1993.

The Army Sea Duty Ribbon (ASDR) is awarded to members of the United States Army, Army Reserve and National Guard upon completion of sea duty on a U.S. Army Vessel. Requirements include that an active duty member must complete 2 years of cumulative sea duty aboard a Class A or Class B vessel. For Reserve or National Guard personnel the requirement is two years in a U.S. Army Watercraft unit.

The U.S. Air Force awards the Air and Space Campaign Medal (ASCM) to personnel involved (after March 24th, 1999) in the U.S. Military operation that was designated by the Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force. The ASCM is awarded to Air Force personnel for serving direct support of a military operation for a period of 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days.

The Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal is a service medal of the United States Air Force established on 27 May 2014. The medal recognizes service by personnel in various career fields who have served in units involved with national strategic nuclear deterrence operations. Officer and enlisted personnel in the Active, Air Force Reserve, and Air National Guard communities are eligible for this medal. Eligible service is retroactive from 26 December 1991.

The Armed Forces Reserve Medal (AFRM) is granted to personnel who have completed 10 years of service as a member of a Reserve or National Guard component of the U.S. military. The service can be cumulative, given that the 10 years accumulate and are served over a period of 12 consecutive years. Voluntary recalls to active duty are not counted within the 10 years of service nor is service within the inactive reserves. The AFRM is also given to any member of the Reserve or National Guard who is mobilized to an active duty status. When this is the situation then the 10 year period benchmark is waived and the AFRM is given regardless of time in service. The Mobilization device is given as an attachment to the AFRM in all cases of mobilization to active duty. The AFRM is a service wide decoration for every branch of the military and is given to enlisted personnel and officers.

 

Bronze Hourglass device 10 years of service.

Silver Hourglass device 20 years of service.

Gold Hourglass device 30 years of service.

Bronze and Gold Hourglass device 40 years of service.

 

The NCO Professional Development Ribbon (established in 1981) is issued by the U.S. Army for completion of any prescribed non-commissioned officer development courses. The first award of the NCO Professional Development Ribbon is issued for completion of the Basic Leader Course (BLC [former titles of BLC include: the "Warrior Leader Course", "Primary NCO Course", "Combat Army Course", and the "Primary Leadership Development Course"]). When a soldier completes additional schooling such as the Advanced Leaders Course (ALC), Senior Leaders Course (SLC), and Master Leader Course (MLC), an award numeral is worn on the ribbon to denote subsequent satisfactory completion of those courses (2, 3, & 4 respectively). Currently, the numeral "5" is authorized for graduation from the United States Army Sergeant Major Academy's 'Sergeants Major Course'. Graduates of the Battle Staff NCO Course, and the legacy First Sergeant Course, do not receive a numeral device for graduation from those courses. The highest numeral authorized for the NCO Professional Development Ribbon is "6" for graduates of the Nominative Leaders Course (NLC). NLC is a two week strategic leader development course designed to prepare nominative Command Sergeants Major (CSM) and Sergeants Major (SGM) for their duties as CSMs for commanders of 1-2 star Army commands, and Staff Section SGMs at HQDA level of responsibilities.

The Army Service Ribbon (ASR) is a military award of the United States Army that was established by the Secretary of the Army on 10 April 1981 as announced in Department of the Army General Order 15, dated 10 October 1990.

The Army Overseas Service Ribbon was first issued in August 1981. It is presented to any member of the United States Army who completes a standard overseas tour of duty.

The length of a standard tour is dependent upon the duty location and whether the Soldier is accompanied or unaccompanied with a spouse/family member(s). The tour in question may be cut 1 month short due to manning requirements (not due to Soldier misconduct) and still receive full credit for the tour length. There are 2 types of tour designations, long tours (24+ months) and short tours (6–23 months). Anything shorter than 6 months is considered TDY (Temporary Duty Assignment). The standard unaccompanied Korean tour is 12 months, and accompanied is 24 months. The German tour is 36 months for unaccompanied and accompanied. Combat tours are typically 6–12 months and can extend beyond during critical periods. The Iraqi Surge campaign tour was 15 months.

In the 11 December 2006 revision of AR 600-8-22 (Military Awards), the Army eliminated the policy which had restricted the awarding of the Overseas Service Ribbon when another campaign or service medal is awarded.

The Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon (ARCOTR) is the Army Reserve version of the Army Overseas Service Ribbon. It is bestowed upon drilling members of the Army Reserve and the Army National Guard who completes ten or more consecutive days of active duty training outside of the contiguous United States.

The Special Operations Service Ribbon is a service award of the United States Coast Guard which was first created 1 July 1987 by order of Commandant of the Coast Guard, Admiral Paul A. Yost Jr.. The award is authorized for certain acts of non-combat meritorious service, for which no other service medal or ribbon is authorized.

The four main areas of eligibility, for the presentation of the Special Operations Service Ribbon, are listed as follows:[3]

• Coast Guard operations of a special nature involving multiple agency involvement pertaining to national security or law enforcement.
• Coast Guard operations of a special nature in support of special events drawing large media interest and public attention.
• Coast Guard operations or involvement with foreign government in all areas of saving life and property at sea.
• Coast Guard operations of assistance for friendly and/or developing nations.

The Combat Readiness Medal is an award of the United States Air Force which was first created in 1964. The original Combat Readiness Medal was an award senior to the Air Force Commendation Medal, and it was awarded for superior and meritorious duty to the United States Air Force. The award criteria for the medal were revised in 1967 and the Combat Readiness Medal adopted the designation as a service medal.

The current Combat Readiness Medal is awarded to any member of U.S. Air Force, Air National Guard, or Air Force Reserve, who have accomplished sustained individual combat mission readiness in an Air Force weapon system or who have undertaken the preparedness for direct weapon-system employment. A service member must have completed 24 cumulative months of sustained duty performance for the medal to be received.

The Combat Readiness Medal is given as a service award by an Air Force Major Headquarters. In many cases, those receiving the award have also qualified for the Air Medal, the Aerial Achievement Medal or the Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal. For aeronautically rated Air Force officers and enlisted aircrew personnel, it is not unusual to receive one or both of the aforementioned flight crew medals simultaneously with the Combat Readiness Medal.

The Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (NSSDR) is presented to any member of the United States Navy after they complete a deployment at sea. A standard deployment is considered 90 consecutive days or two periods of at least 80 days within a 12 month period. Additional awards of the ribbon are represented by wearing a Bronze Star device on the service ribbon.

The Navy Arctic Service Ribbon is a decoration of the United States Navy which was established in May 1986. The ribbon is authorized to any member of the U.S. Navy or United States Marine Corps for service above the Arctic Circle. Like the Antarctica Service Medal, it may also be awarded to civilians and members of other U.S. services.

The Navy Reserve Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (f/k/a Naval Reserve Sea Service Ribbon) was created in May 1986. As of January 1, 2014, it is awarded to any member of the U.S. Navy Reserve who completes a cumulative total of 90 days of OCONUS or Underway Duty while assigned to a deployable Navy Reserve or Active-Duty unit. Active-Duty members assigned to a deployable Navy Reserve unit are also eligible for the award under the same qualifying service requirements. Qualifying service must be performed in an operational or operational support role with a deployable unit while operating underway or OCONUS, away from homeport or the permanent duty station. A member is eligible for one award upon completing 90 cumulative days of qualifying service regardless of the length of time required to accumulate the qualifying days. Additional restrictions apply to Inactive Duty Training (IDT) drill periods and travel days. For Selected Reserve (SELRES) IDT drill periods, only one day of qualifying service is authorized per calendar day regardless of the number of drill periods performed. Each travel day between a Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC)/Permanent Duty Station and the qualifying duty location is considered .5 days for purposes of counting qualifying days. Qualifying days applied to the Navy Reserve Sea Service Deployment Ribbon may not be credited towards the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon or the Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon.[7]

For service prior to January 1, 2014, the former requirements still apply. Under those rules, the Naval Reserve Sea Service Ribbon was awarded to any member of the U.S. Navy Reserve (formerly U.S. Naval Reserve) who, while serving as a drilling Selected Reservist (SELRES) or a Training and Administration of the Reserve/Full Time Support (TAR/FTS) officer or sailor, completed twenty-four cumulative months of duty on board a U.S. Navy Reserve Force surface ship or assigned to a deployable/regularly deploying U.S. Navy Reserve Force Aviation Squadron (RESFORON).

The term "Navy Reserve Force Ship" refers to any U.S. Navy commissioned warship under the operational or administrative control of the Navy Reserve, or a self-propelled auxiliary, boat, or other surface craft operated under the operational control of fleet or type commanders.

The Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon was first proposed in 1968, but not authorized until 17 September 1986. The ribbon is awarded to any member of the Navy or Marine Corps who completes one year of consecutive or cumulative duty at a permanent overseas duty station.

For inactive members of the reserve components, the first award is authorized upon completion of either 30 consecutive or 45 cumulative days of overseas duty, regardless of the type of orders. For subsequent awards, the criteria of award for reservists are the same as the active duty members criteria.

In 1999, a directive of the Chief of Naval Operations permitted those personnel stationed on overseas homeported naval vessels to receive the Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon. Prior to this time, such personnel were only eligible to receive the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. Current regulations now permit the receipt of both ribbons for the same tour of duty.

Additional awards of the Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon are denoted by service stars.

The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (SSDR) and Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon (OSR) will be awarded to IAs deploying to Afghanistan (OEF) and Iraq (OIF) in accordance with SECNAVINST 1650.1H. However, the OEF and OIF AOEs may be qualifying areas for either ribbon, depending upon the circumstances of the individual. The following amplifying guidance is provided.

• The 12-month accumulated sea duty requirement for the SSDR is waived for OEF (11 Sep 1 – TBD) and OIF (19 Mar 2003 – TBD) to qualify for the initial award of the ribbon only. The 12-month requirement still applies for second and subsequent awards.
• Individuals with subsequent deployments to the OEF or OIF AOEs may elect to use that deployment time towards qualifying for EITHER a subsequent SSDR or the OSR. The member must elect in writing which ribbon the subsequent deployment time will be credited towards, and may NOT divide the deployment time between the two ribbons. The entire deployment time will be credited towards ONE of the ribbons.

The Coast Guard Overseas Service Ribbon was approved on 28 October 2009 with details announced on 29 April 2010. It is awarded to active duty members on a permanent assignment and who successfully complete a tour of duty of at least 12 months at an overseas shore-based duty station or on board a cutter permanently assigned to an overseas area. It is also awarded to reservists who are permanently assigned and have satisfactorily completed a minimum of 36 cumulative days of service at an overseas duty station during each 12-month period of the total tour of duty.

Duty on board U.S.-based deploying ships or units does not qualify. Personnel who are eligible to receive the Coast Guard's Restricted Duty Ribbon are not eligible to receive the Overseas Service Ribbon for the same period. The ribbon may be awarded retroactively to qualifying individuals for initial award only. Subsequent awards are authorized, and are indicated by small bronze or silver service stars.

The Air Force Overseas Service Ribbon was approved in 1980 by order of General Lew Allen, Air Force Chief of Staff. The award is issued in two grades, being that of "short tour" and "long tour."

The Air Force Overseas Short Tour Service Ribbon is awarded for less than two years of duty or as directed by Air Force policies. Normally, the Short Tour Service Ribbon is awarded for a permanent duty assignment of at least 300 days within an 18-month time span; such assignments are generally served unaccompanied by family members, though a short tour assignment need not be unaccompanied. Historically, most Short Tour Service Ribbons were awarded for service in South Korea, by far the most common short tour assignment in the USAF. From June 2003 until April 2011, Airmen serving in hostile environments for 181 days or more qualified for the Short Tour Service Ribbon under a temporary exception to rules outlined in AFI 36–2110. However, this exemption was rescinded by General Norton A. Schwartz in April 2011 and Airmen will no longer qualify for the award if they arrive in a hostile environment on or after 1 July 2011.

The Air Force Overseas Long Tour Service Ribbon is issued for completion of a standard overseas service assignment of two years or more in length with additional awards denoted by oak leaf clusters. Long tour credit is awarded for completion of an overseas long tour (2 years) prescribed by Air Force Instructions, or to any member assigned to a United States or overseas location who is subsequently sent under temporary duty orders (to include combat tours) for 365 or more days within a 3-year time frame.

Additional awards of the Air Force Overseas Service Ribbon are denoted by oak leaf clusters and Air Force regulations permit the receipt and wear of both the short and long tour ribbons simultaneously, wherein the short tour ribbon takes a higher precedence by being worn to the wearer's right of the long tour ribbon. The "A" device is authorized only on the short tour ribbon to any service member who performs a tour of duty at an arctic based Air Force facility; most commonly Thule Air Base in Greenland.

The Air Force Overseas Service Ribbon was approved in 1980 by order of General Lew Allen, Air Force Chief of Staff. The award is issued in two grades, being that of "short tour" and "long tour."

The Air Force Overseas Short Tour Service Ribbon is awarded for less than two years of duty or as directed by Air Force policies. Normally, the Short Tour Service Ribbon is awarded for a permanent duty assignment of at least 300 days within an 18-month time span; such assignments are generally served unaccompanied by family members, though a short tour assignment need not be unaccompanied. Historically, most Short Tour Service Ribbons were awarded for service in South Korea, by far the most common short tour assignment in the USAF. From June 2003 until April 2011, Airmen serving in hostile environments for 181 days or more qualified for the Short Tour Service Ribbon under a temporary exception to rules outlined in AFI 36–2110. However, this exemption was rescinded by General Norton A. Schwartz in April 2011 and Airmen will no longer qualify for the award if they arrive in a hostile environment on or after 1 July 2011.

The Air Force Overseas Long Tour Service Ribbon is issued for completion of a standard overseas service assignment of two years or more in length with additional awards denoted by oak leaf clusters. Long tour credit is awarded for completion of an overseas long tour (2 years) prescribed by Air Force Instructions, or to any member assigned to a United States or overseas location who is subsequently sent under temporary duty orders (to include combat tours) for 365 or more days within a 3-year time frame.

Additional awards of the Air Force Overseas Service Ribbon are denoted by oak leaf clusters and Air Force regulations permit the receipt and wear of both the short and long tour ribbons simultaneously, wherein the short tour ribbon takes a higher precedence by being worn to the wearer's right of the long tour ribbon. The "A" device is authorized only on the short tour ribbon to any service member who performs a tour of duty at an arctic based Air Force facility; most commonly Thule Air Base in Greenland.

The Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon (AFESR) is a military award of the United States Air Force which was first created in June 2003. The ribbon is awarded to any member of the Air Force who completes a standard contingency deployment.

The regulations of the Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon define a deployment as either forty-five consecutive days or ninety non-consecutive days in a deployed status. Temporary duty orders also qualify towards the ninety-day time requirement. For deployments exceeding 45–90 days, a single Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon will be awarded for the entire time frame rather than issuing multiple awards for the same period of deployed service.

The Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon (AFESR) is a military award of the United States Air Force which was first created in June 2003. The ribbon is awarded to any member of the Air Force who completes a standard contingency deployment.

The regulations of the Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon define a deployment as either forty-five consecutive days or ninety non-consecutive days in a deployed status. Temporary duty orders also qualify towards the ninety-day time requirement. For deployments exceeding 45–90 days, a single Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon will be awarded for the entire time frame rather than issuing multiple awards for the same period of deployed service.

The Coast Guard Sea Service Ribbon (CGSSR) is presented to members of the United States Coast Guard who serve more than 12 consecutive months of sea duty aboard a Coast Guard Cutter or attached to a Fleet Training Group. Established in 1984 additional awards are represented by wearing a Bronze Service Star on the service ribbon.

The Coast Guard Restricted Duty Ribbon (CGRDR) is presented to any member of the United States Coast Guard who completes an "unaccompanied" tour of duty. These tours are typically one to two years long and are one which a service member is not allowed to have their dependent family members accompany them. These tours are normally in combat zones or in Greenland or the Arctic. Additional awards are represented with Bronze Service Star devices.

The Military Training Instructor Ribbon is an award of the United States Air Force that recognizes any member of the Air Force who completes at least a year long tour of duty as a military training instructor. Created in 1998 the award may be issued retroactively to any service member who meets the criteria as long as they were on active duty or a member of a reserve command as of December 1998.

The Coast Guard Basic Training Honor Graduate Ribbon was created on 3 March 1984, with the first presentation in April of that same year to Seaman apprentice Scott Woodard. The Basic Training Honor Graduate Ribbon is presented to the service member who graduates at the top of their basic training instruction class.

Retroactive presentations of the Basic Training Honor Graduate Ribbon may be awarded upon application from the service member to the United States Coast Guard. In such cases, the award will be presented for basic training graduation prior to 1984, only with supporting documentation and a written request from the service member.

The Navy Recruiting Service Ribbon is awarded for the purpose of recognizing members of the United States Navy who have served in one of the Navy's Major Recruiting Commands. The award is presented after the completion of a successful 3 year tour of service, and additional awards are denoted by wearing a Bronze Service Star device on the ribbon.

The Marine Corps Recruiting Ribbon is presented to Marine Corps personnel (Officers and Enlisted) after they have completed a standard 36 month tour with the U.S. Marine Corps Command. Additional awards of the ribbon and represented by wearing a Bronze Star device on the service ribbon.

The Coast Guard Recruiting Service Ribbon is a service ribbon for the United States Coast Guard that recognizes a service member for completing a two year tour as a USCG Recruiter. Additional awards of the ribbon are denoted with Bronze Service Star devices.

The Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon (AFLSR) was first created in 1957 by General Thomas D. White as an Air Force equivalent to the other branches service stripes worn on the sleeves of their uniforms. The award is presented to Air Force personnel after completing 4 years of service. Air Reserve and Air National Guard service also qualify as long as it was preformed in a drilling status with regular attendance of weekend drills and annual training.

The Air Force Special Duty Ribbon is a ribbon that is only awarded by the United States Air Force. Established 4 September 2014 by the Secretary of the Air Force.

The Air Force Recruiter Ribbon is approved for wear by any personnel graduating from the Air Force Recruiting School. After a period of 36 months of recruiting duty the ribbon becomes a personal decoration and may still be worn on the service persons awards rack, even if they leave the recruiting service. Created in June of 2000, the award was retroactive to any Air Force member who had preformed at least 36 months as an Air Force recruiter provided that the service member was still on active duty.

The Navy Recruit Training Service Ribbon is awarded for the purpose of recognizing enlisted members of the United States Navy who have served as Recruit Division Commanders. The award is presented after the completion of a successful 3 year tour of service, and additional awards are denoted by wearing a Bronze Service Star device on the ribbon.

The Marine Corps Drill Instructor Ribbon (MCDI) is presented to recognize those who have been trained and qualified as Marine Corps Drill Instructors. A service member must serve for 3 qualifying years in their position to receive the ribbon. Created in 1997 the award is retroactive to October 6th, 1952. Additional awards are represented with Bronze Service Star devices.

The Navy Ceremonial Guard Ribbon is presented to service members of the United States Navy and Navy Reserves after completion of a standard 2 year tour of duty with the Navy Ceremonial Guard. For a reservist the qualifying service must be at least 18 months of successful drills with the Navy Ceremonial Guard. Created in December of 2003, the award is not retroactively issued. Additional awards of the ribbon are represented by wearing a Bronze Star device on the service ribbon.

The Marine Corps Security Guard Ribbon is an award of the United States Marine Corps that was created to recognize USMC personnel who have served as U.S. Embassy Guards. Established in July of 1997 the award is retroactive to January 28th, 1949 as long as the service member meets the criteria that they have served as an Embassy Guard for a full 24 month tour. Additional awards are represented by wearing a Bronze Service Star device on the ribbon. For those retroactively awarded, it is a one time only presentation and no devices are allowed.

The Marine Corps Combat Instructor Ribbon is a military award of the United States Marine Corps established by Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus in August 2014. The ribbon recognizes the successful completion of a tour as a combat instructor, or in a high-profile leadership position, at the School of Infantry East or West.

The Naval Reserve Medal was a decoration presented by the United States military to recognize members of the U.S. Naval Reserve, associated National Naval Volunteers and local Naval militia units who had served at least 10 years of consecutive service in either active duty, drilling reservist or inactive status. The award was active between September 12, 1938 - September 12, 1958 when it was replaced by the Armed Forces Reserve Medal.

Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) Professional Military Education (PME) Graduate Ribbon (Air Force)

Authorized by the Secretary of the Air Force, August 28, 1962.

NCO professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon is awarded to graduates of a certified U.S. Air Force NCO PME school, phases II, III, and IV. Award of the NCO professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon is retroactive for graduates of a certified NCO leadership school. Successful completion of more than one PME school entitles an enlisted Service member to a bronze oak-leaf cluster on the service ribbon.

The Basic Military Training Honor Graduate Ribbon is an award of the United States Air Force that is presented to graduates of the Air Force Basic Training who have obtained an Honor Graduate status. The award is a one time award and may not be issued retroactively. Currently there are regulations that require that no more than 10% of a graduation class may be awarded the ribbon

The Air Force Training Ribbon (AFTR, AFTING) is awarded to Air Force personnel on completion of Basic Military Training (BMT) for enlisted personnel, Basic Cadet Training (BCT) at the U.S. Air Force Academy, or commissioning through the Air Force ROTC, Officer Training School (OTS) or another officer accession program. If a service personnel completes both the BMT and later completes a officer accession program, they are authorized to wear a bronze Oak Leaf Cluster device on the ribbon to denote an additional award. First created in 1980, it is retroactive to August 14th, 1974.

The Enlisted Person of the Year Ribbon is a decoration of the United States Coast Guard which was established in 1999, though retroactive to 1994, by order of the Commandant of the Coast Guard.

The Enlisted Person of the Year Ribbon is annually awarded to two members of the Coast Guard, paygrade E-2 through E-6; the Coast Guard Enlisted Person of the Year (EPOY) and the Coast Guard Reserve Enlisted Person of the Year (REPOY).

The selection based on a display of pride, professionalism, and dedication to Coast Guard core values, and is made by a panel of Master Chief Petty Officers, led by the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard (MCPOCG). The decoration is a one time only award and there are no devices authorized for multiple presentations.

The Merchant Marine Atlantic War Zone Medal (Bar) is a decoration of the United States Merchant Marine established by an Act of Congress on May 10, 1944.

The Philippine Presidential Unit Citation Badge is a unit decoration of the Republic of the Philippines. It has been awarded to certain units of the United States military and the Philippine Commonwealth military for actions both during and subsequent to the Second World War.
 

The Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation is a military unit award of the government of South Korea that may be presented to South Korean military units, and foreign military units for outstanding performance in defense of the Republic of Korea. In recognition of allied military service to South Korea during the Korean War, all United States military departments were authorized the unit award for that period.
 

The Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Medal was a decoration presented by South Vietnam to recognize outstanding civic service to the state or civil service of great asset to the South Vietnamese cause. U.S. military personnel who were eligible for this medal generally participated in local police activity to contain civil unrest in areas of South Vietnam. The 1st Class medal is awarded to officers and the 2nd Class medal is awarded to non-commissioned officers and enlisted men.

The Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Unit Citation was a decoration presented by the government of South Vietnam to recognize a units outstanding civic service to the state or civil service of great asset to the South Vietnamese cause. U.S. military units who were eligible for this award generally participated in local police activity to contain civil unrest in areas of South Vietnam. The 1st Class medal is awarded to officers and the 2nd Class medal is awarded to non-commissioned officers and enlisted men.

The Philippine Defense Medal is a military award and decoration of the Republic of the Philippines which is awarded to recognize the initial resistance against Japanese invasion between the dates of 8 December 1941 and 15 June 1942. The award was first created in December 1944, and was issued as the Philippine Defense Ribbon. A full-sized medal was authorized and added in July, 1945.

The Philippine Liberation Medal is a military award of the Republic of the Philippines which was created by an order of Commonwealth Army of the Philippines Headquarters on 20 December 1944, and was issued as the Philippine Liberation Ribbon. The decoration was presented to any service member, of both Philippine Commonwealth and allied militaries, who participated in the liberation of the Philippine Islands between the dates of 17 October 1944, and 2 September 1945. A full-sized medal was authorized and added on 22 July 1945.

The Philippine Independence Medal is a military award and decoration of the Republic of the Philippines which was created by order of the Philippine Army Headquarters on 3 July 1946 as the Philippine Independence Ribbon. The medal was added in 1968. The medal recognizes those members of the military who had participated in multiple Philippine Commonwealth military operations during the years of World War II.
 

The United Nations Service Medal for Korea (UNKM) is an international military decoration established by the United Nations on December 12, 1950 as the United Nations Service Medal. The decoration was the first international award ever created by the United Nations and recognized the multi-national defense forces which participated in the Korean War.

A United Nations Medal is an international decoration awarded by the United Nations (UN) to the various world countries members for participation in joint international military and police operations such as peacekeeping, humanitarian efforts, and disaster relief. The medal is ranked in militaries and police forces as a service medal. The United Nations awarded its first medal during the Korean War (1950–1953). Since 1955, many additional United Nations medals have been created and awarded for participation in various United Nations missions and actions around the world.

The Inter-American Defense Board Medal is an international military award which was created on December 11, 1945, by the 91st session of the Inter-American Defense Board, a Pan-American defense group devoted to the security of the member countries of the Organization of American States.

The Inter-American Defense Board Medal is awarded to any military officer, serving in a member nation of the Organization of American States, who completes a tour of service with the Inter-American Defense Board. The award is also presented to military personnel who serve on the staff of the IADB Chairman, Secretariat, or for those who complete instructor tours at the Inter-American Defense College.

The Inter-American Defense Board Medal is a one-time decoration but may be upgraded with 3⁄16 inch silver and gold stars depending on the length of time an individual serves with the Inter-American Defense Board. A silver service star or bar is awarded for one year of service; a gold service star or bar for two; two gold stars or bars for between three years and five; and three gold stars or bars for more than five years service. U.S. military personnel who have been awarded the Inter-American Defense Board Medal and ribbon may wear them when attending meetings, ceremonies, or other functions where Latin American members of the Board are present.

The Korean War Service Medal, also known as the Republic of Korea War Service Medal (ROKWSM), is a military award of South Korea which was first authorized in December 1950.

A marksmanship ribbon is a United States Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard award that is issued to its members who pass a weapons qualification course and achieve an above-average score. Additionally, there are select state National Guard organizations that award marksmanship ribbons for high placement in state-level marksmanship competitions.

The U.S. Navy has issued these two marksmanship awards since 1920: the Navy Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon which is currently awarded for qualification on the Beretta M9 9mm pistol, and the Navy Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon which is currently awarded for qualification on the M4 variant.

The Navy issues the marksmanship ribbon in three levels of precedence: Expert, Sharpshooter, and Marksman. The basic ribbon is awarded for the Marksman level while the specific ribbon device is awarded for qualification as a Sharpshooter or Expert. Those receiving an Expert qualification receive the Marksmanship Medal and Marksmanship Ribbon.

The Navy also issued Distinguished Marksmanship Ribbons between 1942 and 1960 which were declared obsolete by 1965.

The U.S. Coast Guard Marksmanship Ribbons are issued under the same criteria as the U.S. Navy, but Coast Guardsmen use a .40 cal SIG Sauer P229R DAK pistol instead of the Navy's M9 pistol. The Coast Guard issues two ribbons, known as the Coast Guard Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon and the Coast Guard Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon. The ribbon device is awarded for qualification at the higher levels of sharpshooter and expert. Like the Navy, for those who receive an expert qualification, the Marksmanship Medal is awarded instead of the Marksmanship Ribbon.

The U.S. Navy has issued these two marksmanship awards since 1920: the Navy Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon which is currently awarded for qualification on the Beretta M9 9mm pistol, and the Navy Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon which is currently awarded for qualification on the M4 variant.

The Navy issues the marksmanship ribbon in three levels of precedence: Expert, Sharpshooter, and Marksman. The basic ribbon is awarded for the Marksman level while the specific ribbon device is awarded for qualification as a Sharpshooter or Expert. Those receiving an Expert qualification receive the Marksmanship Medal and Marksmanship Ribbon.

The Navy also issued Distinguished Marksmanship Ribbons between 1942 and 1960 which were declared obsolete by 1965.

The U.S. Coast Guard Marksmanship Ribbons are issued under the same criteria as the U.S. Navy, but Coast Guardsmen use a .40 cal SIG Sauer P229R DAK pistol instead of the Navy's M9 pistol. The Coast Guard issues two ribbons, known as the Coast Guard Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon and the Coast Guard Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon. The ribbon device is awarded for qualification at the higher levels of sharpshooter and expert. Like the Navy, for those who receive an expert qualification, the Marksmanship Medal is awarded instead of the Marksmanship Ribbon.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor is the highest state military award. It is awarded by the Governor of Texas upon the passage of a concurrent resolution of the Texas Legislature.

More information: https://tmd.texas.gov/texas-military-department-state-awards

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Lone Star Medal of Valor is the second highest state military award. It is awarded by the Governor of Texas upon the recommendation of the Adjutant General of Texas.

More information: https://tmd.texas.gov/texas-military-department-state-awards

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas Purple Heart Medal is available for those who, after September 11, 2001, was inducted into federal service from the Texas National Guard and meets the criteria for an award of the federal Purple Heart Medal, or were killed or wounded at Fort Hood on November 5, 2009.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas Superior Service Medal is awarded to: a service member of the Texas military forces who has: completed 30 or more years of honorable state service or a combination of state and federal service; and continually demonstrated superior performance and service while assigned to key leadership positions demanding responsibility; or a civilian who has contributed significant service to the Texas military forces.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Lone Star Distinguished Service Medal is awarded to a member of the military forces of this state, another state, or the United States for exceptionally outstanding achievement or service to this state in performance of a duty of great responsibility while serving with the Texas military forces for whom the department receives a letter of recommendation for award of the Lone Star Distinguished Service Medal that: gives an account of the exceptional achievement or service; and includes facts and photographs, and extracts from official documents to support and amplify the facts.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas Outstanding Service Medal is awarded to a service member of the military forces of this state, another state, or the United States who has performed service in a superior and clearly outstanding manner.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas Medal of Merit is awarded to a member of the military forces of this state, another state, or the United States who performs outstanding service or attains extraordinary achievement in behalf of the state or United States.

Governed by Joint Force Texas (JFTX) Regulation 1-07, State Military Awards (dated Aug. 1, 2009), the Adjutant General’s Individual Award is awarded to members of the Texas military forces who, while serving in any capacity with the Texas military forces, shall have distinguished himself/herself by meritorious achievement or outstanding service, when such action or duty is extremely noteworthy but of a lesser degree than that required for award of a higher State of Texas decoration.

The Texas State Guard Meritorious Service Ribbon is awarded to any member of the Texas State Guard, who while serving in any capacity shall distinguish themselves by meritorious service or achievement but of a lesser degree than that required for the Adjutant General's Individual Award. However, the service or achievement shall be such that it clearly sets them above their peers and above what is to be normally expected. Successive awards are identified by an oak-leaf cluster device.

Regulation allows for successive Commendation Medals to be issued.

This Award may be given to any member of the Texas State Guard by the Commanding General at any Texas State Guard function or activity for exceptional performance. The ribbon may be awarded by the Commanding general as a "pocket award" or through recommendation by unit commanders. Subsequent awards are identified by the use of oak-leaf clusters.

 Texas State Guard Recruiting Ribbon. The Texas State Guard Recruiting Ribbon can be awarded to any member of the Texas State Guard who recruits at least five individuals who are active members for six or more months. Subsequent awards will be denoted by a bronze oak leaf cluster for each additional 10 recruits. A silver oak leaf cluster will be worn in lieu of five bronze oak leaf clusters and is worn to the wearer’s right of a bronze oak leaf cluster.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Federal Service Medal is awarded to a service member who was inducted into federal service from the Texas military forces between June 15, 1940, and January 1, 1946, or after June 1, 1950, if the service was for more than 90 days.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas Cold War Medal is available for Texans who entered military service between Sept. 2, 1945 and Dec. 26, 1991.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas Desert Shield/Desert Storm Campaign Medal is awarded to those who were inducted into federal service from the Texas National Guard after August 1, 1990, in support of Operation Desert Shield or Operation Desert Storm, without regard to the place that the service member was deployed while serving on active federal military duty.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas Iraqi Campaign Medal is awarded to those who were inducted into federal service from the Texas National Guard, without regard to the place that the service member was deployed while serving on active federal military duty, after: March 19, 2003, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, or August 31, 2010, in support of Operation New Dawn.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas Outstanding Service Medal is available for those who were inducted into federal service from the Texas National Guard after October 6, 2001, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, without regard to the place that the service member was deployed while serving on active federal military duty.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas Humanitarian Service Medal is awarded to a service member who: does not meet the criteria for an award of the federal Humanitarian Service Medal; is a member of the Texas military forces; and while serving on state active duty or active duty under state authority in accordance with Title 32, United States Code, participates satisfactorily in defense support to a mission under civilian authority to protect life or property during or soon after a natural disaster or civil unrest in the state.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas Border Security and Support Service Ribbon which shall be awarded to a service member of the military forces of this state, another state, or the United States who served on or after July 28, 2014; on state active duty or active duty under state authority in accordance with Title 32, United States Code, for at least 90 consecutive days, or in response to an emergency activation; and honorably in support of operations under civilian authority to secure this state's international border.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas Homeland Defense Service Medal is awarded to a service member of the Texas military forces who served: on or after September 11, 2001; on state active duty or active duty under state authority in accordance with Title 32, United States Code; and satisfactorily in defense support to a mission in the state under civilian authority.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas Combat Service Ribbon is awarded to a service member of the Texas National Guard who served, after September 11, 2001, in a hostile fire zone as designated by the United States Secretary of Defense.

Created by Senate Bill 955 of the 79th Texas Legislature (2005), the Texas Cavalry Service Medal was awarded to those who: served on or after September 11, 2001, in the 124th Cavalry, Texas Army National Guard; and served in a hostile fire zone as designated by the United States Secretary of Defense.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas Faithful Service Medal is awarded to a member of the Texas military forces who has completed five years of honorable service during which the service member has shown fidelity to duty, efficient service, and great loyalty to this state.

Governed by the Texas Government Code, Chapter 437 (Texas Military), Subchapter H. (Awards), the Texas State Guard Service Medal is awarded to those who complete three consecutive years of honorable service in the Texas State Guard during which the service member has shown fidelity to duty, efficient service, and great loyalty to this state.

The Officer Professional Development Ribbon is awarded to members of the Texas State Guard Officer Corps upon successful completion of prescribed Officer Academy, approved university, college, ROTC, and other approved Courses of study which clearly contribute to the professional development of the officer. This ribbon will be awarded to officers who have completed Federal or State Command and staff Training. This ribbon may be awarded to officers engaged in the TSG education and training program for course and program development and/or instructing in the program for a prescribed number of courses/hours.

The NCO Professional Development Ribbon is awarded to members of the Texas State Guard upon successful completion of prescribed NCO Basic Course, approved university, college, ROTC, and other approved Courses of study which clearly contribute to the professional development of the soldier. This ribbon may also be awarded for approved developmental courses provided by other military services or Federal or State government agencies.

This ribbon is awarded upon certification of completion of Basic Training.

The Texas State guard Physical Fitness Ribbon will be awarded to any member of the Texas State Guard who demonstrates above average physical ability. The requirement for the award is as follows: (1) Successfully complete a two mile run or swim based upon an individual's age and gender group, and (2) Perform the required amount of push-ups and sit-ups as required by age and gender groups.

The Sam Houston Award certificate with medal is presented only to an active, retired, or honorably discharged member of the Texas State Guard.  The nominee may be for a living or deceased member and is cited for exceptional achievement furthering the aims and goals of the nation, state, community, and the State Guard Association of Texas.  The nominee must be considered a visionary whose distinguished service was conducted with the highest military standards of integrity, leadership, patriotism, and professionalism.

The Sam Houston Award of the SGATX is considered the most prestigious of all presentations.

The William B. Travis Award certificate with ribbon is awarded by the State Guard Association of Texas for distinguished achievement furthering the aims and goals of the Texas Military Department or the Texas State Guard component of the State Guard Association of Texas. The nominee has demonstrated loyalty by demonstrating a commitment to the organization, to the leadership of the organization, and the organization's mission. This service was conducted with the highest military standard of leadership and integrity for the betterment of others.  The nominee is not required to be a current member State Guard Association of Texas or a current or former member of the Texas Military Department.

The James Bowie Award certificate with ribbon is awarded by the State Guard Association of Texas for meritorious achievement and service in furthering the aims of the State of Texas, the Texas Military Department, or the Texas State Guard.  The nominee will have demonstrated humanitarianism through the individual’s generosity of time and self and whose distinguished service was conducted with the highest military standard of leadership, organizational ability, and skills for the betterment of other.  The nominee is not required to be a current member State Guard Association of Texas or a current or former member of the Texas Military Department.

The Juan Seguin Award certificate with ribbon is presented by the State Guard Association of Texas for distinguished achievement demonstrated for an act of valor which  resulted in action of life saving or the prevention of death or injury and should demonstrate the individual awardee acted due to the skills and training enhanced through the individual’s participation in the Texas Military Department.  The award could be presented to a person who assisted in a lifesaving or injury prevention act.  The nominee is not required to be a current member State Guard Association of Texas or a current or former member of the Texas Military Department.

To whom awarded: The Presidential Service Medal is presented to the incoming President upon taking the oath of office by the outgoing President. The award consists of a round medallion bearing the SGAUS logo, suspended on a neck ribbon.

To whom awarded: The Distinguished Service Medal may be awarded to any SGAUS member who has distinguished himself or herself by exceptionally meritorious service or achievement that has significant impact upon SGAUS and/or their respective state guard/defense force. This may be based on a singular act of exceptionally meritorious achievement or for outstanding achievements over a period of time.

Recommendations: Will be forwarded through the state guard/defense force commander or SGAUS Board Member to the Awards Committee for review. The recommendations of the Awards Committee will be presented to the approving authority for its decision.

Succeeding awards: A bronze oak leaf cluster will be attached to the award ribbon for each succeeding award. A silver oak leaf will be worn in place of five bronze clusters. A gold star device is worn to represent an act of valor or heroism.

Approving authority: The approving authority for this award is the SGAUS Executive Committee.

To whom awarded: The Medal of Merit may be awarded to any SGAUS member for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements in a duty of great responsibility that have a significant impact upon the mission of SGAUS.

Recommendations: Will be forwarded through the state guard/defense force commander or SGAUS Board Member to the Awards Committee for review. The recommendations of the Awards Committee will be presented to the approving authority for its decision.

Succeeding awards: A bronze oak leaf cluster will be attached to the award ribbon for each succeeding award. A silver oak leaf cluster will be worn in place of five bronze clusters. A gold star device is worn to represent an act of valor or heroism.

Approving authority: The approving authority for this award is the SGAUS Executive Committee.

To whom awarded: The Meritorious Service Award may be awarded to any SGAUS member who has performed meritorious service or achievement that has significant favorable impact upon SGAUS or a state guard/defense force. Normally, the acts or services rendered must be comparable to that required for the SGAUS Medal of Merit but in a duty of lesser, though considerable, responsibility.

Recommendations: Will be forwarded through the state guard/defense force commander or SGAUS Board Member to the Awards Committee for review. The recommendations of the Awards Committee will be presented to the approving authority for its decision.

Succeeding awards: A bronze oak leaf cluster will be attached to the award ribbon for each succeeding award. A silver oak leaf cluster will be worn in place of five bronze clusters. A gold star device is worn to represent an act of valor or heroism.

Approving authority: The approving authority for this award is the SGAUS Executive Committee.

To whom awarded: The Commendation Medal may be awarded to SGAUS members who have performed commendable service or achievement or for an act of valor or heroism at the risk of life or personal injury that brought significant distinction to SGAUS or a state guard/defense force.

Recommendations: Will be forwarded through the state guard/defense force commander or SGAUS Board Member to the Awards Committee for review. The recommendations of the Awards Committee will be presented to the approving authority for its decision.

Succeeding awards: A bronze oak leaf cluster will be attached to the award ribbon for each succeeding award. A silver oak leaf cluster will be worn in place of five bronze clusters. A gold star device is worn to represent an act of valor or heroism.

Approving authority: The approving authority for this award is the SGAUS Executive Committee.

To whom awarded: The Achievement Medal may be awarded to recognize the achievement of a SGAUS member who has performed meritorious service that has favorable impact on SGAUS or a state guard / defense force.

Recommendations: Will be forwarded through the state guard/defense force commander or SGAUS Board Member to the Awards Committee for review. The recommendations of the Awards Committee will be presented to the approving authority for its decision.

Succeeding awards: A bronze oak leaf cluster will be attached to the award ribbon for each succeeding award. A silver oak leaf cluster will be worn in place of five bronze clusters.

Approving authority: The approving authority for this award is the SGAUS President.

To whom awarded: The Faithful Service Medal may be awarded to SGAUS members who successfully served SGAUS as president elect, a vice president, secretary, treasurer, member of the executive committee or board, member of the special staff, command sergeant major, chair of any committee appointed by the president, MEMS commandant, MEMS state or regional director, or Commandant of the Chaplain Staff College.

Recommendations: Will be forwarded through the SGAUS President, Executive Director or SGAUS Board Member to the Awards Committee for review. The recommendations of the Awards Committee will be presented to the approving authority for its decision.

Succeeding awards: A bronze oak leaf cluster will be attached to the award ribbon for each succeeding award. A silver oak leaf cluster will be worn in place of five bronze clusters.

Approving authority: The approving authority for this award is the SGAUS President

To whom awarded: The Recruiting Achievement Medal may be awarded to SGAUS members who have recruited 10 new current/active members into SGAUS. Documentation in the form of the full names of those recruited is required with the award recommendation.

Recommendations: May be forwarded directly to the Awards Committee for review. The recommendations of the Awards Committee will be presented to the approving authority for its decision.

Succeeding awards: A bronze oak leaf cluster will be attached to the award ribbon for each succeeding award. A silver oak leaf cluster will be worn in place of five bronze clusters.

Approving authority: The approving authority for this award is the SGAUS President.

To whom awarded: The Longevity Medal honors members who have kept up continuous membership and shall be awarded to SGAUS members who have five continuous years of paid membership. It is intended to increase both esprit-de-corps and the visibility of members within the SGAUS.

Recommendations: May be submitted directly to the Awards Committee for review. The recommendations of the Awards Committee will be presented to the approving authority for its decision.

Succeeding awards: a bronze star will be awarded to every additional 5 years of continuous membership. A silver star will be worn to recognize 25 years of continuous SGAUS membership.

Approving authority: The approving authority for this award is the SGAUS President.

To whom awarded: the SGAUS Military Justice Award may only be awarded to an active SGAUS member who has successfully fulfilled all of the following requirements:

A. Hold a current, unrestricted license to practice law granted by an established jurisdiction of the United States or its territories.

B. Successful completion of “Practicing Military Justice,” a comprehensive twenty (20) hour online training course offered through the SGAUS Staff Judge Advocate Academy.

a. The Practicing Military Justice course is comprised of ten (10) training modules.

b. Each training module requires its own examination which must be passed with a score of seventy-percent (70%) or above.

c. To successfully pass the course, applicants must achieve individual passing scores of seventy-percent (70%) or above on each of the ten (10) module examinations.

C. Complete a minimum of seven (7.0) hours of in-person military continuing legal education at an officially-sanctioned SGAUS event.

a. Eligible SGAUS events for purposes of these requirements shall include the SGAUS Mid-Year and Annual Conferences.

b. Registration and attendance records for in-person SGAUS military continuing legal education courses must be authenticated by the Chair of the Staff Judge Advocate Academy.

D. Successful completion of a comprehensive three (3.0) hour in-person trial practicum conducted and scored at an officially-sanctioned SGAUS event.

a. The requirement for completion of the trial practicum will be waived if the applicant can provide satisfactory proof of prior requisite experience as a federal judge advocate in the Armed Forces of the United States.

 

Recommendations: Upon successful completion of the delineated requirements for the award, the award nomination and all associated documentation will be forwarded by the chair of the Judge Advocate Academy to the Awards Committee for consideration. The recommendations of the Awards Committee will then be presented to the approving authority for its decision.

Approving authority: The approving authority for this award is the SGAUS Executive Committee

To whom it is awarded: the SGAUS Professional Development Ribbon may be awarded to an active SGAUS member who has successfully fulfilled one of the following requirements:

A. Successfully completed Primary (Warrior) Leader Course (PLC) through the SGAUS PME Academy as an E1 or above, OR

B. Successfully completed Warrant Officer Basic Course (WOBC) through the SGAUS PME Academy as a WO1 or above, OR

C. Successfully completed Officer Basic Course (OBC) through the SGAUS PME Academy as an O1 or above.

Award recommendations May be submitted directly to the Awards Committee for review. The recommendations of the Awards Committee will be presented to the approving authority for its decision Succeeding awards:

A. Second Award - A centered numeral “2” device is worn to represent an active SGAUS member’s successful completion of:

i. E1 or above:PLC and Advanced Leader Course (ALC) through the SGAUS PME Academy.

ii. WO1 or above: WOBC and Warrant Officer Advanced Course (WOAC) through the SGAUS PME Academy.

iii. O1 or above: OBC and Officer Advanced Course (OAC) through the SGAUS PME Academy.

B. Third Award - A centered numeral “3” device is worn to represent an active SGAUS member’s successful completion of:

i. E1or above:PLC,ALC,andSeniorLeaderCourse(SLC)through the SGAUS PME Academy.

ii. WO1 or above: WOBC, WOAC, and Warrant Officer Staff Course (WOSC) through the SGAUS PME Academy.

iii. O1 or above: OBC, OAC, and Command and Staff Course Phase I (CAS1) through the SGAUS PME Academy.

C. Fourth Award - A centered numeral “4” device is worn to represent an active SGAUS member’s successful completion of:

i. E1 or above: PLC, ALC, SLC, and Command Sergeant Major Course (CSMC) through the SGAUS PME Academy.

ii. O1 or above: OBC, OAC, CAS1, and Command and Staff Course Phase II (CAS2) through the SGAUS PME Academy.

D. Recipients will wear the ribbon with no more than one (1) numeral device affixed. The specific numeral device worn (i.e. either a 2, 3, or 4) will represent the highest course level corresponding to their current grade that the recipient has completed to-date through the SGAUS PME Academy. Wear of a numeral “1” device is not authorized.

Approving authority: The approving authority for this award is the SGAUS Executive Committee.

To whom awarded: The SGAUS Membership Medal is conferred to every member in good standing, and remains valid so long as membership dues are paid. The award has equal stripes of blue and gray, and is worn with the gray strip toward the uniform centerline. Life members wear two gold stars, with one star centered on the blue stripe and one star centered on the gray stripe.

Approving authority: The approving authority for this award is the SGAUS President.

To whom awarded: The Superior Unit Citation may be awarded to SGAUS members in a state guard/defense force unit that performed outstanding service in response to a riot, natural or manmade disasters and emergencies to a degree beyond that normally expected, either for a sustained period or in a specific set circumstance. The Superior Unit Citation is given to foster unit esprit-de-corps by recognizing those units that demonstrated outstanding performance in support of the mission of SGAUS and the state guard/defense force.

How awarded: The circumstances of the service and activities performed must be documented in detail and submitted with a roster of names of the individual SGAUS members who served with the unit during the cited period. The unit citation will be awarded only to SGAUS members who actually served in the cited unit during the award period or specific act.

Recommendations: Will be submitted through the state guard/defense force chain of command to the awards committee, using the SGAUS Award Recommendation Form and accompanied by a proposed citation. The recommendation of the Awards Committee will be presented to the approving authority for its decision.

Award retention: SGAUS members retain the right to wear the ribbon after transfer from the unit. SGAUS members joining the unit at a later time may be issued the ribbon with authorization to wear so long as they remain with that unit and are members of SGAUS.

Succeeding awards: For each succeeding award, an oak leaf cluster will be attached to the award ribbon. A bronze cluster shall represent one additional award and a silver cluster will be worn in place of five bronze clusters.

Approving authority: The approving authority for this award is the SGAUS Executive Committee.