Links to Authoritative Ribbon & Medal Resources
Click on the blue links to visit any of these resources; linked pages open in a new browser window. Because many of the top Marine Corps and Space Force decorations are awarded through their parent services (Navy and Air Force, respectively), many of these sites have limited information specific to Marines and Guardians.
- The Institute of Heraldry (Army)
- The central authority for the design and execution of federal medals and ribbons, including the Coast Guard.
- “Our work encompasses all elements of National symbolism associated with research, design, development, standardization, quality control, and other services which are fundamental to the creation and custody of official heraldic items. Products include coats of arms, decorations, medals, flags, streamers, agency seals, badges, and other types of official insignia. TIOH also provides the general public with limited research and information services.”
- USCG Personnel Services Division, Medals and Awards (PSC-PSD-M&A)
- Manages the Coast Guard’s various award programs. Includes contact information for veterans’ queries and the unit postal address.
- Coast Guard Awards
- A roundup of the various Coast Guard awards available to both military and civilians.
- Awards & Recognition for Auxiliarists
- Lists most of the awards and decorations available to Auxiliarists. Omits some, such as the Gold and Silver Lifesaving Medals.
- Navy Decorations
- A listing of all naval uniform decorations, also applicable to the Marine Corps.
- Marine Corps Ribbon Precedence
- Chart of all currently authorized ribbons for wear on Marine Corps uniforms.
- Decorations & Awards (DOD)
- A 1992 guide from the American Forces Information Service. Dated, but still very informative.
- Tops 3 Military Awards for Valor (DOD)
- This DOD site is an excellent summary of the top 3 tiers of decorations.
- Air Force Decorations & Ribbons
- An exemplary easy-to-use guide to Air and Space Force ribbons dating back to the Army Air Corps era.
- Public Health Service Commissioned Officers’ Awards Program
- A rundown of all USPHS ribbons, plus a handy wall chart. Good official information for anyone researching a USPHS ribbon.
- Merchant Marine Emblem, Medals & Ribbons
- A basic illustrated list of Merchant Marine awards, with precedence.
- Mariner’s Medals
- Maritime Administration site depicting medals, mostly from World War II. Includes a unique Soviet commemorative medal awarded to Americans who participated in the dangerous Murmansk Run during World War II.
- NOAA Uniform Ribbons & Devices
- NOAA’s comprehensive uniform, insignia and decoration rules.