Marine Corps Military Ribbon & Medal Wear Guide

Introduction

Welcome to Marjorie Cowley's comprehensive guide on the Marine Corps Military Ribbon & Medal Wear Guide. In this article, we will provide you with detailed information about the ribbons and medals awarded in the Marine Corps, as well as guidelines on how to properly wear them.

The Significance of Ribbons and Medals

Ribbons and medals play a significant role in recognizing the bravery, dedication, and achievements of Marines. They symbolize a Marine's accomplishments, service, and valor. Understanding the meaning and proper wear of ribbons and medals is essential for every Marine as it showcases their military career and honors their dedication to serving our country.

Types of Ribbons and Medals

The Marine Corps has a rich history of awarding various ribbons and medals for different achievements and actions. These include, but are not limited to:

Navy and Marine Corps Awards

• Navy Cross
• Medal of Honor
• Distinguished Service Cross
• Silver Star Medal
• Purple Heart
• Achievement Medals
• Good Conduct Medal
• Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal

Marine Corps Service Ribbons

• National Defense Service Medal
• Korean Service Medal
• Vietnam Service Medal
• Afghanistan Campaign Medal
• Iraq Campaign Medal
• Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
• Armed Forces Service Medal

Unit Awards

• Navy Unit Commendation
• Meritorious Unit Commendation
• Presidential Unit Citation
• Marine Corps Drill Instructor Ribbon

Proper Wear of Ribbons and Medals

Wearing ribbons and medals correctly is important to convey a Marine's achievements accurately. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Order of Precedence

Marines should be aware of the order of precedence when wearing ribbons and medals on their uniforms. The seniority of the awards determines their position. The Marine Corps Uniform Regulations provide detailed information on this order.

Proper Alignment

When mounting ribbons and medals, it is crucial to align them correctly. They should be centered and positioned properly on the uniform to maintain a sharp appearance. Marines should consult the Uniform Regulations for precise alignment instructions.

Multiple Awards of the Same Medal

If a Marine has received multiple awards of the same medal, they should wear the highest-awarded medal in the primary position. Additional medals can be worn in a horizontal row to the right of the primary medal.

Ceremonial Wear vs. Everyday Wear

Marines should be familiar with the distinctions between ceremonial wear and everyday wear. Ceremonial wear typically includes full-sized ribbons and medals, while everyday wear may consist of smaller versions, known as ribbon bars or miniature medals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the Marine Corps Military Ribbon & Medal Wear Guide is vital for every Marine. This guide has provided you with valuable information regarding the types of ribbons and medals, and guidelines on how to properly wear them. By wearing ribbons and medals with pride and in accordance with the regulations, Marines display their dedication and service to the Marine Corps and our nation.

For more detailed information and specific regulations, we recommend referring to the official Marine Corps Uniform Regulations.