Navy Marine Corps Commendation Medal

The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal is a prestigious military award established to recognize commendable service and achievement by members of the Navy and Marine Corps. **History and Authorization**: The award was initially created as the Commendation Ribbon by the Chief of Naval Operations through ALNAV of January 11, 1944. A medal pendant was later added, leading to its renaming as the Navy Commendation Medal. In August 1994, the name was changed to the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal to acknowledge both branches of service【4:0†source】. **Effective Date**: The medal is retroactively effective for individuals serving on or after December 7, 1941【4:0†source】. **Criteria and Eligibility Requirements**: The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to any individual serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps who distinguishes themselves through heroic or meritorious achievement or service. To qualify, the acts must be performed in a manner that surpasses what is typically expected, effectively distinguishing the awardee from their peers【4:0†source】. The medal can be awarded under various circumstances: 1. **Valor**: For acts of valor that do not rise to the level of the Bronze Star Medal (BSM) with a "V" device. 2. **Non-combat Heroism**: For acts of heroism that do not warrant the Navy Medal (NM) or Air Medal for actions involving aerial flight. 3. **Meritorious Achievement under Combat Conditions**: This applies to achievements or periods of service that, while valuable, do not reach the threshold for the BSM with "C" device. 4. **Non-combat Meritorious Achievement or Service**: This recognizes achievements or service that, while notable, do not qualify for the Meritorious Service Medal (MSM)【4:0†source】【4:1†source】. **Awarding Authority**: The Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) oversees operations that qualify for the medal. Commanding Officers (COs) who have the authority to award the Navy Achievement Medal may also award the Commendation Medal to eligible personnel【4:0†source】【4:1†source】. **Subsequent Awards**: Participation in authorized operations beyond the first is denoted by a 3/16-inch bronze star worn on the ribbon. A 3/16-inch silver star is worn in place of five bronze stars【4:0†source】. **Notable Recipients**: While the manual does not specify notable recipients, the medal has been awarded to numerous service members over the decades for a variety of achievements and acts of heroism that exemplify commitment and valor in service【4:1†source】【4:3†source】. **Authorized Devices**: The award may be issued with devices to denote valor or meritorious service under combat conditions. Specifically: - The “V” device is authorized for acts of heroism in combat. - The “C” device is authorized for meritorious service or achievements under combat conditions【4:12†source】. **Conclusion**: The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal serves as a vital recognition of the exceptional service, heroism, and dedication of service members. Its establishment and criteria highlight the significance placed on valor, achievement, and service within the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.