Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon

The Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon is a military award that recognizes proficient firearms marksmanship among service members within the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. It is part of the broader classification of marksmanship awards that include various qualifications for different types of firearms. ### History and Overview The Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon was established under the authority of the Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual. The award is intended to promote marksmanship training and standards among personnel, thereby ensuring readiness and effectiveness in firearms use. ### Criteria and Eligibility To qualify for the Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon, a service member must: 1. Successfully complete the required marksmanship training course. 2. Achieve the minimum qualifying score on the prescribed firing exercises. Qualification is categorized into three levels: - **Marksman**: The lowest level of qualification. - **Sharpshooter**: A higher level than marksman but below expert. - **Expert**: The highest level of marksmanship qualification. The specific qualification scores, administrative procedures, and course requirements are set forth in relevant Navy instructions, specifically OPNAVINST 3590.7 for Navy personnel【4:1†source】. ### Awarding Authority Commanding Officers (COs) who have the authority to award the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal also possess the authority to award the Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon to personnel in their command who meet the necessary eligibility criteria【4:1†source】. ### Subsequent Awards Each additional award of the Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon is denoted by a 5/16-inch gold star on the ribbon. If a service member earns a fifth gold star, it is replaced by a 5/16-inch silver star【4:0†source】【4:4†source】. ### Authorized Devices In addition to gold and silver stars, eligible personnel may wear the appropriate qualifying badges as per their service regulations. It is important to note that Navy and Marine Corps personnel are only authorized to wear marksmanship awards issued by their services【4:4†source】. ### Notable Recipients While specific notable recipients of the Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon are not commonly publicized, the ribbon has been awarded to countless service members who have demonstrated exceptional firearms proficiency as part of their service duties. ### Additional Information The Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon ranks behind all other awards in precedence order—prioritizing any competition badges first, followed by rifle, then pistol qualification awards. The emphasis on marksmanship training reflects a vital aspect of military readiness and safety【4:1†source】【4:4†source】. Overall, the Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon serves not only as recognition for individual achievements in marksmanship but also emphasizes the importance of skillful weapons handling and the commitment to maintaining high standards within the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.