Understanding Military Medals And Ribbons

The world of military medals and ribbons can be complex and overwhelming, especially for those who are not familiar with the various awards and decorations. For service members, veterans, and their families, understanding the different types of medals and ribbons is essential to appreciate the sacrifices and achievements of those who have served. In this article, we will delve into the world of military medals and ribbons, exploring their history, significance, and meaning.

The history of military medals and ribbons dates back to ancient times, when warriors were awarded for their bravery and achievements in battle. In the United States, the first military medal was the Badge of Military Merit, established in 1782 by General George Washington. Over time, the number of medals and ribbons has grown, with each branch of the military having its own unique awards and decorations.

Types of Military Medals and Ribbons

There are several types of military medals and ribbons, each with its own specific criteria and requirements. Some of the most common types of medals and ribbons include:

Service Medals: Awarded for service in a specific conflict or operation, such as the Afghanistan Campaign Medal or the Iraq Campaign Medal.
Achievement Medals: Recognize outstanding achievements, such as the Army Achievement Medal or the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.
Commendation Medals: Awarded for meritorious service, such as the Army Commendation Medal or the Air Force Commendation Medal.
Valor Medals: Recognize acts of bravery and heroism, such as the Medal of Honor or the Silver Star Medal.
Unit Awards: Awarded to units for outstanding performance, such as the Presidential Unit Citation or the Valorous Unit Award.

How Military Medals and Ribbons Are Awarded

The process of awarding military medals and ribbons involves several steps, including:

Nomination: A service member's commander or supervisor nominates them for a medal or ribbon.
Review: The nomination is reviewed by a panel of senior officers or officials.
Approval: The medal or ribbon is approved by a senior official, such as a general or admiral.
Presentation: The medal or ribbon is presented to the service member in a formal ceremony.

Criteria for Awarding Military Medals and Ribbons

The criteria for awarding military medals and ribbons vary depending on the specific award. Some common criteria include:

Bravery: Acts of bravery and heroism, such as saving a life or risking one's own life to protect others.
Achievement: Outstanding achievements, such as completing a difficult mission or achieving a high level of performance.
Service: Service in a specific conflict or operation, or completion of a certain number of years of service.
Leadership: Demonstrated leadership and command, such as leading a unit in combat or achieving a high level of success.

Displaying Military Medals and Ribbons

Military medals and ribbons are typically displayed on a uniform or in a shadow box. The order of precedence for displaying medals and ribbons varies depending on the branch of service and the specific awards. Some common guidelines for displaying military medals and ribbons include:

Order of Precedence: Medals and ribbons are displayed in a specific order, with the most prestigious awards first.
Ribbon Rack: Ribbons are typically displayed on a ribbon rack, which is a device that holds the ribbons in place.
Medal Mounting: Medals are typically mounted on a medal mounting, which is a device that holds the medals in place.

Collecting Military Medals and Ribbons

Collecting military medals and ribbons can be a rewarding hobby for those interested in military history and memorabilia. Some tips for collecting military medals and ribbons include:

Research: Research the medal or ribbon you are interested in collecting to ensure it is genuine and authentic.
Condition: Consider the condition of the medal or ribbon, as well as any accompanying documentation or provenance.
Rarity: Consider the rarity of the medal or ribbon, as well as its historical significance.

Conclusion

Understanding military medals and ribbons is an important part of appreciating the sacrifices and achievements of those who have served. By learning about the different types of medals and ribbons, as well as the criteria for awarding them, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the bravery and dedication of our service members. Whether you are a service member, veteran, or simply interested in military history, we hope this article has provided you with a better understanding of military medals and ribbons.

What is the highest military honor?

The highest military honor is the Medal of Honor, which is awarded for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty.

How are military medals and ribbons awarded?

Military medals and ribbons are awarded through a formal process, which includes nomination, review, approval, and presentation.

Can I collect military medals and ribbons?

Yes, collecting military medals and ribbons can be a rewarding hobby. However, it's essential to research and ensure the authenticity and provenance of the medals and ribbons.