List of Marine Corps Ribbons

It’s an honor to serve in the United States Military Forces. Many young men and women choose to enlist in the marines because the company’s fierce determination and pride. Once a marine, always a marine and they aren’t any tougher than the marines are. Throughout your service, you will face many trials and tribulations. These will make you stronger, so stay true to your military goals. You will also face the opportunity to be awarded for your service. Here is a list of Marine Corps ribbons and medals given to those for their dedicated service under specific circumstances.

Medal of Honor

Every man and woman strives to earn the Medal of Honor. This is awarded by the President of the United States, and it is only awarded to those who have distinguished themselves by risking their lives beyond the call of duty. This is the granddaddy of Marine Corps medals.

Navy Cross

If you did something amazing, really amazing, but it didn’t quite warrant the Medal of Honor, you may receive the Navy Cross. Yes, you are a marine, but you are still an entitled recipient of this award, which is given to those who display extraordinary heroism while in the line of duty.

Silver Star

Next in line of Marine Corps ribbons is the Silver Star, and a marine can earn this award if he or she is cited as being gallant. Service during a military action or operation must be heroic to receive the Silver Star, so make certain you overcome any understandable fear and fight gallantly alongside your fellow service people.

Bronze Star

The federal government did not begin awarding the Bronze Star to service people until after Dec. 6, 1941. Of course, if you enlist today, you’re qualified to receive it. If you distinguish yourself with heroic action or action worthy of merit during combat, you might earn a Bronze Star.

Commendation Medals

When serving in the USMC or the United States Navy, you may be awarded with commendation medals for your contribution to protecting U.S. freedoms. The commendation medal is awarded to military personnel who perform their duties as expected by above their peers. You may also earn an achievement medal for your work unrelated to military combat.

The final installment in this list of Marine Corps ribbons is the Purple Heart. Should you become injured while engaged in active military combat, you may be entitled to receive the Purple Heart. Should you be killed while fighting, the Purple Heart may be awarded to your next of kin. Although a beautiful honor, here’s hoping you never receive the Purple Heart.