Navy Ceremonial Guard Service Ribbon

The Navy Ceremonial Guard Service Ribbon, previously known as the Navy Ceremonial Guard Ribbon, was established to recognize personnel assigned to the Navy Ceremonial Guard and other select commands such as the USS Constitution. Here are the key details regarding this award: **Authorization and Effective Date** - The ribbon was initially authorized through a SECNAV letter dated December 12, 2003, and was officially renamed to the Navy Ceremonial Duty Ribbon in a memo on January 3, 2012. The effective date for eligibility was set starting May 1, 2001【16:5†source】【16:5†source】. **Criteria for Award** - The award is available to military personnel assigned to the Navy Ceremonial Guard and those stationed on the USS Constitution who have completed a successful tour. - A successful tour consists of: - A minimum duration of at least two years, inclusive of at least 18 months in a "drilling status". - Drilling status entails actual participation in ceremonies, funerals as casket bearers, firing parties, color guards, ceremonial drill teams, and other formal military events. - Successful completion of the standard honors qualification is required to maintain eligibility. - Awarding authorities may waive the 18-month requirement for personnel who receive full honors qualification【16:5†source】【16:4†source】. **Conduct and Personal Standards** - It is vital for individuals to uphold high personal standards during their service. Disciplinary incidents, including non-judicial punishment (NJP), issues of indebtedness, or failing to meet Physical Readiness Test (PRT) standards, can disqualify personnel from receiving the ribbon【16:5†source】. **Subsequent Awards** - Individuals can receive the Navy Ceremonial Duty Ribbon only once per tour, despite the tour length. Subsequent awards are indicated by a 3/16-inch bronze star on the ribbon, with a 3/16-inch silver star substituting for five bronze stars【16:5†source】. **Award Elements** - The award consists solely of a ribbon; no citation or certificate is issued upon its award【16:5†source】. **Notable Recipients** - While specific notable recipients of the Navy Ceremonial Guard Service Ribbon are not widely publicized, service members in prestigious ceremonial roles, especially those involved in notable state functions, are typically potential recipients. The Navy Ceremonial Guard Service Ribbon highlights the exemplary service of Navy personnel who represent the Navy during various formal events and ceremonies, embodying the Navy's traditions and pride.