Tag: medal

seamen’s service flag and lapel button

The Seamen’s Service Flag and Lapel Button of the American Merchant Marine

Background

When Congress passed the Service Flag Act of 1942 (Public Law 750), authorizing the familiar blue-star banner for families of military personnel, it left unaddressed an entire body of Americans who were dying in even greater proportion at sea – American Merchant Mariners. By mid-1942, the War Shipping Administration (WSA) had organized more than 4,000 vessels and over 200,000 seamen under its control; losses on the North Atlantic and Arctic routes were staggering. Yet the families of these men had no lawful symbol by which to show their service and sacrifice. However, a major shipping company, the United States Lines, acted first, honored the seamen in its employ with a striking banner at its termnal in Manhattan. It was a disgrace that the WSA needed to remedy.

The War Department hesitated to extend the 1942 act to cover civilians under WSA, fearing dilution of the military flag’s authority. The WSA, in turn, asked Congress to legislate a separate emblem that would carry official sanction but a distinct appearance. From this bureaucratic correspondence came one of the least-remembered acts of wartime recognition: the Seamen’s Service Flag and its companion Lapel Button, both authorized in 1943.

Legislation

On 5 April 1943, Representative Schuyler Otis Bland of Virginia—longtime chairman of the House Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries—introduced H.R. 2281, “To authorize the issue of suitable insignia and service flags to seamen serving in the American Merchant Marine.” The bill sought to bring parity of symbol, not of rank, acknowledging the mariner’s peril without militarizing his status.

The measure moved swiftly. With little debate in the House and minor amendments in the Senate, it became Public Law 78-52 on 10 May 1943 (57 Stat. 81-82). Its first section provided:

“The War Shipping Administration is authorized to issue suitable insignia and medals to seamen serving in the American Merchant Marine during the war period, and to approve a seamen’s service flag and a seamen’s service lapel button for the immediate family of any such seaman.”

The Senate Commerce Committee added a safeguard clause: any design resembling the Armed Forces’ flag must receive the Secretary of War’s consent. The purpose was not control but coordination to ensure that the new emblem would stand beside, not beneath, the military services in visual dignity.

On 25 September 1943, the details appeared in the Federal Register (Vol. 8, No. 187, p. 13070) as “Service Insignia and Service Flag for the American Merchant Marine.” The order established three related symbols:

  1. The Merchant Marine Service Emblem (for seamen themselves);
  2. The Seamen’s Service Flag (for their families); and
  3. The Seamen’s Service Lapel Button (a miniature personal version of the flag).

The Seamen’s Service Flag

The Seamen’s Service Flag adopted a form both familiar and reversed. Where the Armed Forces’ banner bore a red border enclosing a white field with a blue star, the mariners’ flag was entirely blue with white stars, a symbolic inversion that signified equal honor in a different sphere. Each star represented a member of the immediate family “serving in the American Merchant Marine during the war period.” The flag’s proportions were those of the military design, but its color and absence of red marked it as civilian, peaceful, and oceanic.

The official language specifies:

“The Seamen’s Service Flag shall be of blue bunting, the hoist one and two-thirds times the fly, with one or more white stars corresponding to the number of seamen from the immediate family. In the upper hoist quarter, a white silhouette of a merchant vessel shall appear, and around the border a continuous golden rope terminating in a figure-of-eight knot on the fly.”

Crucially, the same regulation continues:

“If the seaman represented is killed or dies while serving, the white star shall have superimposed thereon a smaller gold star so that the white forms a border.”

The WSA circulated the approved pattern to its training stations and district offices late in 1943. Families could obtain the flag by application through a mariner’s operating company or local WSA office, providing proof of relationship and service. In contrast to the military’s mass-produced blue-star banners, production numbers for the Merchant Marine version were small. Surviving examples are typically silk or rayon, with a gold-stitched merchant-vessel silhouette above one or more white stars appliquéd on navy-blue ground.

Contemporary press releases framed the flag as “a symbol of faithful service in the war’s most perilous field.” Households from Portland to New Orleans hung it beside the better-known military banners, though its blue field was easily mistaken for a state or club pennant. A gold-star variant, signifying death in service, was mentioned in legislation but appears never to have been or produced in numbers.

By the war’s end, fewer than ten thousand flags had been issued. The WSA’s authority expired with demobilization in November 1946, and no agency succeeded it in maintaining the program. As a result, the Seamen’s Service Flag faded from post-war public memory almost as quickly as the ships themselves disappeared from convoy duty.

The Seamen’s Service Lapel Button

Paired with the window flag was a small emblem meant for personal wear—the Seamen’s Service Lapel Button. It fulfilled the same social role for merchant seamen’s families that the blue star pin played for soldiers’ and sailors’ kin. The Federal Register text described it only as “a type to be approved by the War Shipping Administration,” leaving form to the designers.

Design

The approved design featured a gilt-bronze laurel wreath surrounding a rectangular navy-blue enamel tablet, bordered with a rope pattern. In the center of the tablet, a white star rises above the silhouette of a cargo vessel in gold relief. The ship is depicted with its bow and stern in balance, showcasing a single stack and bridgehouse that unmistakably resemble those of the wartime Liberty ship. The symbolism in the design is clear: the star represents service, the ship signifies the fleet that provided the nation’s lifeline, and the wreath symbolizes honor.

The badge measured approximately ⅞ inch by 1 inch, fitted with a simple horizontal safety clasp. Most examples are unmarked, but known manufacturers include Whitehead & Hoag Co. (Newark, NJ) and Green Duck Co. (Chicago, IL), firms already under government contract for military insignia. Each employed vitreous enamel over struck bronze, producing a rich translucent blue that has darkened with age.

Issuance

Eligible recipients were defined as “immediate family members”—parents, spouses, siblings, or children—of any mariner serving under WSA control. Applications were submitted to district WSA offices and verified against ship-assignment rosters. The buttons were presented in small pasteboard boxes printed with “American Merchant Marine in Service,” often accompanied by a leaflet explaining the symbol’s meaning and the obligation “to wear it with pride and prayer.”

In cases of death, the Federal Register again provided explicit authorization:

“When the seaman is killed or dies while serving, the star upon the button shall be gold in color.”

Gold-star lapel buttons were therefore legitimate issue items—contrary to many post-war assumptions that they were unofficial. Surviving specimens confirm the existence of both blue-star and gold-star versions, struck and enameled to identical pattern except for the color of the star.

The button was worn on civilian dress from late 1943 until the cessation of hostilities. By 1947, with the WSA dissolved and mariners returning to peacetime trade, distribution ended. The lapel button quietly disappeared from jewelry counters and remembrance ceremonies alike, its purpose fulfilled yet unrecorded.

Aftermath and Legacy

With the demobilization order of 8 November 1946, the WSA ceased all awards and insignia programs. Production of the Seamen’s Service Flag and Lapel Button ended, and the remaining stock was transferred to the U.S. Maritime Commission for disposal. Unlike the Merchant Marine Service Emblem, which persisted in academy use, the family symbols vanished quietly from public display.

Yet they remain the first—and only—wartime emblems legislated specifically for the families of Merchant Mariners. Both flag and pin gave civilian households a sanctioned form of acknowledgment, binding them to the same language of stars and gold that the nation used for its uniformed dead. Though rare today, these pieces embody the moment Congress recognized that the Merchant Marine was, in every sense but uniform, a service of war.

While the military blue-star banner often takes the spotlight, the Seamen’s Service Flag and Lapel Button symbolize an important moment in recognizing America’s civilian sailors during wartime. They marked the first acknowledgment by Congress that the families of merchant seamen deserved the same right to display a symbol of pride as those of the armed forces. The design of these emblems – deep blue and maritime – reflects the labor of the ocean rather than the glory of the battlefield.

Today, surviving examples are scarce. The fragile silk of the flags has often perished; the enamel on the lapel pins chips easily.

Yet their symbolic lineage endures. Every later effort to grant veterans’ status to Merchant Mariners – from the 1977 Public Law 95-202 to the 1988 Public Law 105-368 – invokes, implicitly, the recognition first codified in 1943. The blue field and white star remain the quiet heraldry of those who served without uniform, whose families waited at windows for ships that never returned.

References

  • Public Law 78-52, 10 May 1943, 57 Stat. 81–82.
  • Senate Commerce Committee Report No. 178, 78th Congress, 1st Session, 1943.
  • Federal Register, Vol. 8, No. 187 (25 September 1943), p. 13070 “Service Insignia and Service Flag for the American Merchant Marine.”
  • Polaris, United States Merchant Marine Academy, November 1943 – February 1945.
  • War Shipping Administration Circulars, 1943–1945.

awards & decorations: federal

The Merchant Marine “Pyramid of Honor” came to be in 1942 with the award of Merchant Marine Distinguished Service Medal; however, this medal was not originally construed as the pinnacle of a system of Merchant Marine awards and decorations, rather a wartime decoration particular to the Second World War. Thus, federal awards and decorations created for members of the American Merchant Marine may be grouped into three phases: Early War (1942-1943), Late War (1944-1946), and Recognition (1988). Otherwise, ribbons and a medal were granted for Merchant Marine participation in the Korean conflict, for service in Vietnamese waters, and later for the Gulf War. The last medal created was a general honorific awarded by the head of the Federal agency responsible for overseeing United States maritime policy and interests.

It is important to note wartime awards were specific to civilians on ships chartered by the U. S. Government with the War Shipping Administration as General Agent, and civilian mariners with the U. S. Army. Although the American Merchant Marine counts its members among individuals working in fisheries, on (railroad) ferries, barges, lakes, and other brown-water and Intracoastal locations, the strict definition for awards and decorations between 1942 and 1946 meant blue-water seamen, only. Postwar, with the government taking a less active role in shipping, awards fell by the wayside until a renovation in interest came in the late 1980s.

awards & decorations: federal, post-gulf war
awards & decorations: federal, 1942-1946
awards & decorations: federal, recognition

As a discussion point, the American Merchant Marine is an idea, not an agency, nor a quasi-governmental organization. American ships have been subsidized by the Federal government, both in their construction and management, but shipping companies (for the most part), have been private concerns and their employees, private citizens. People who worked on these ships are civilians. An interesting situation grew during the Second World War: all ocean-going American ships – subsidized or not – were pressed into wartime service. Merchant seamen remained on these ships and served in support of the war effort. They became auxiliaries to the military, but not uniformed members of the Armed Services; some officers, who had U.S. Naval Reserve commissions were taken by the U.S. Navy to serve on Naval vessels, but most remained with their ships. To honor the sacrifices endured by these individuals, first the U.S. Maritime Commission, and then the War Shipping Administration – as authorized by U.S. Congress – created a series of personal decorations and unit awards during and immediately after the war for merchant seamen. These initial awards were modeled using the military medal vocabulary at the time – an early attempt at creating a merit medal for unlicensed was recast becoming instead a medal for wounds like the “Purple Heart.” In later years, successor Federal agencies created additional awards for merchant seamen (later called Merchant Mariners) to further honor the unique role they played in times of crisis. Often, these awards have a military analogue as shown in the chart below. The newest creations: the “Outstanding Achievement Medal,” deviates from the military model, and underscores the civilian nature of the American Merchant Marine; its awards span humanitarian activities to industry accomplishment. Thus far, Merchant Mariners are the only group of civilians honored by the United States government who have such an elaborate Pyramid of Honor.

Merchant Mariners are legislated as veterans – medals did not make them as such, their sacrifices under fire did.

Merchant Marine Decoration*Institution DateMilitary AnalogueInstitution Date
Distinguished Service Medal4/11/1942U. S. Navy Distinguished Service Medal2/4/1919
Meritorious Service Medal8/29/1944Legion of Merit Medal (Legionnaire)10/29/1942
Gallant Ship Award Plaque & Ribbon8/29/1944U. S. Army Meritorious Unit Plaque8/23/1944
Mariner’s Medal5/10/1943Purple Heart Medal2/22/1932
Combat Bar5/10/1943U. S. Army Combat Infantryman Badge11/15/1943
Defense Bar8/29/1944American Defense Ribbon6/28/1941
Atlantic Service Bar5/10/1943European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Ribbon11/6/1942
Mediterranean-Middle East Service Bar5/10/1943European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Ribbon11/6/1942
Pacific Service Bar5/10/1943Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Ribbon11/6/1942
Victory Medal8/8/1946Victory Ribbon7/6/1945
Korean Service Bar7/24/1956Korean Service Medal11/8/1950
Vietnam Service Bar7/8/1965Vietnam Service Medal7/8/1965
Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal**1990Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal12/4/1961
Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement2002U. S. Secretary of Navy Commendation for Achievement5/1/1961
Congressional Gold Medal2019The Navy and Marine Corps’ Medal of Honor12/16/1861
U. S. Merchant Marine Pyramid of Honor, 1942-2021

* “Bar” in the listing above means ribbon. Until 1992, many ribbon “bars” had no corresponding medal.
** Awarded 22 May 1991 (Maritime Day)

awards & decorations: federal, 1942-1946

Early War, 1942-1943

The first Federal decorations specifically created for merchant seaman during the Second World War were the Maritime Eagle pin and the quasi-official “Torpedoed Seaman’s Club” insignia. After the initial award of the Merchant Marine Distinguished Service Medal, the latter two became deprecated and it was the only decoration granted to seamen until 1943.

merchant marine distinguished service medal design
merchant marine distinguished service medal
torpedoed seamen’s club insignia & merchant marine combat bar
ships for victory pin

Late & Post-War, 1943-1946

Advisors to independent tankermen’s unions – John Collins and Agnes Collins – testimony before Congress in 1942 was instrumental in capturing Congressional attention to the plight of the merchant seaman, and in turn brought about both government-sponsored welfare for the families of merchant seamen and a system of honors for the seamen themselves. The idea of government-sponsored social welfare for beached seamen was an alien concept in the 1940s since the government expected private charitable organizations and shipping companies to pick up the task. An honors system for civilian merchant seamen, as outlined by Mr. Collins was a topsy-turvy idea – merchant seamen were not considered on a par with man-of-war sailors in the eyes of most Americans. And yet, in terms of both, the government did eventually institute relief programs, and took the Collins’ suggestions  – almost to the letter  – in how to award merchant seamen for their contributions in the Second World War. Out of these efforts came the rest of the wartime decorations; an initial group legislated for in 1943, a second in 1944, and finally the Victory Medal in 1946.

merchant marine victory medal
gallant ship citation ribbon
mariner’s medal
merchant marine meritorious service medal
seamen’s service flag and lapel button
war zone bars
merchant marine service emblem
gallant ship plaques

Congressional Gold Medal, 2019

After decades of lobbying and failed bills, H.R. 550, referred to as “Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2019,” was approved on 19 December 2019, granting American Merchant Mariners the highest honor bestowed by Congress.

congressional gold medal for merchant mariners of world war ii
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congressional gold medal for merchant mariners of world war ii

Earlier this week the Congressional Gold Medal for World War II Merchant Mariners arrived in my mailbox. I was tapped to participate in the Design Committee in mid-2020; it was the greatest of honors to be involved in the committee to help guide the designers in crafting the medal – and even more an honor to assist in the celebration of America’s unsung heroes of the Second World War after all these years. Indeed, Merchant Mariners were belatedly given veteran’s status in 1988; however, their recognition took place at the Capitol, underlying the key role they played in winning the war.

In terms of the design itself, we on the Committee had been going back and forth over various designs without actually having any trial strikes or maquettes – holding the final result in my hand was pretty neat. I should mention, that the figures are a broad representation of a ship’s crew. I am really glad the Lundeberg Stetson was included – it is a nod to the unions; since, without their tacit cooperation, we would not have had anyone running the ships through the gauntlet. I had lots to say about the importance of the unions and officer’s cap and coat in our meetings – I am glad my suggestions were followed-up upon.

Apply for or purchase a Congressional Gold Medal Duplicate

A duplicate medal may be applied for or purchased; all medals available to veterans, their families, or the general public are struck in matte bronze. It is important to note Congressional Gold Medals awarded to groups are not an individual honor, group members do not receive their own gold medal – rather, a bronze medal. There is no limit to the number of medals an individual may purchase.

Application

The Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2020 authorizes the Maritime Administration (MARAD) to award duplicates of the medal to individuals who, between December 7, 1941, and December 31, 1946, were members of the United States Merchant Marine, or other related services – namely the Army Transport Service (ATS) or Navy Transport Service (NTS).  If a qualified individual is no longer available to receive their medal, MARAD is authorized to issue a smaller duplicate of the medal to the next of kin.

To request a medal, MARAD asks that veterans or their family members or survivors submit (follow the bolded links for example documents – in the event you don’t know what you’re looking for):

Inquires, along with the required documents, can be emailed to Katrina McRae at the Office of Sealift Support: katrina.mcrae@dot.gov

N.B.: I suspect the “duplicate” as noted above to be the 3-inch medal, and the “smaller duplicate” to be the 1.5-inch medal. The image above is of the 3-inch medal.

Purchase

The medal may be purchased from the United States Mint. The orders are dispatched from the US Mint’s fulfillment center in Memphis, Tennessee; depending upon the destination address, medals may be received anywhere from four to fourteen days after processing if using standard shipping.

The US Mint offers the medal in two sizes: 1.5-inches or 3-inches in diameter. Although the mintage of either medal has not been published, using numbers from previous years (2017-2020), the US Mint struck an average of 3,780 3-inch medals, and 2,560 1.5-inch medals. Once all stocks are depleted, medals are not re-struck. The price (as of this writing) for each is $20.00 and $160.00, respectively.

Please find the US Mint’s catalog page below:
https://catalog.usmint.gov/merchant-mariners-of-world-war-ii-bronze-medal-MASTER_MLMMW.html

Veteran Status & DD-214

Merchant Mariners of the Second World War may gain veteran’s status if they both prove their wartime service and if they hold an Honorable Discharge. Just like their uniformed peers, a discharge other than honorable invalidates a mariner from receiving veteran’s benefits – including receiving a duplicate of the Congressional Gold Medal. The key to this status is having a DD-214.

The DD-214 holds all pertinent information regarding a Merchant Mariner’s wartime service, including their positions aboard ships, vessels sailed, training stations attended, any decorations awarded, as well as the type of discharge they may hold. Unless they were kicked out of the industry or banned from War Shipping Administration ships – or did not skip out of training – most mariners served honorably.

The DD-214 may be obtained by filling out the “DD Form 2168, Application for Discharge of Member or Survivor of Member, April 2010;” requisite paperwork is available from the United States Coast Guard:
https://www.dco.uscg.mil/Portals/9/NMC/pdfs/records_request/dd_2168.pdf

As a note, for families of deceased veterans, the DD-214 allows for them to petition the United States Maritime Administration for replacement or missing wartime decorations awarded to their kin as well as a duplicate Congressional Gold Medal.

☆ ☆ ☆

The American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) has also provided a comprehensive guide – this should be consulted first:
https://ianewatts.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/ammv-mm-wwii-dd214-apply.pdf

The US Coast Guard published a short Frequently Asked Questions document regarding the application process as well as information on what to provide in applying for a deceased relative. The document is here:
https://www.dco.uscg.mil/Portals/9/NMC/pdfs/faq/WWII_veteran_faq.pdf

Many thanks are due to Sheila Sova of AMMV regarding the DD-214 application process.

merchant marine victory medal

Legislation

Public Law 78-251, 56 Stat. 213

79th Congress

AN ACT

Providing for a medal for service in the merchant marine during the present war [S. 2236]

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the United States Maritime Commission is authorized and directed to procure a medal and suitable appurtenances of appropriate design, including an honorable discharge lapel button, to be awarded to (1) each person who served honorably in a war zone as an officer or member of the crew of vessels owned by or operated by or for the account of the Maritime Commission or the War Shipping Administration for thirty days during the period beginning December 7, 1941, and ending with September 3, 1945; and (2) each person who is entitled to receive a certificate of substantially continuous service pursuant to the provisions of Public Law 87, Seventy-eighth Congress, approved June 23, 1943 (57 Stat. 162). The medal may be awarded posthumously and, when so awarded, shall be presented to such representative of the deceased as shall be prescribed in the applicable regulations. Awards under this Act shall be made pursuant to regulations prescribed by the Maritime Commission.

SEC. 2. The Maritime Commission is authorized to expend out of any funds available for expenditure by the Maritime Commission such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.

SEC. 3. The manufacture, sale, possession, or display of any insignia, decoration, medal, award, or device, or the ribbon, button, or rosette thereof, or any colorable imitation of any insignia, decoration, medal, award, or device, provided for in this Act, is prohibited, except as authorized under such Act or any rule or regulation issued pursuant thereto. Whoever violates any provisions of this section shall be punished by a fine not exceeding $250 or by imprisonment not exceeding six months, or both.

Approved August 8, 1946.

gallant ship citation ribbon

Legislation

Executive Order 9472

Establishing Certain Awards for the Merchant Marine [Federal Register Doc. 44 13133; Filed, August 29, 1944; 2:38 p.m.]

By virtue of the authority vested in me as President and as Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States, it is hereby ordered as follows:

1. (a) The Administrator of the War Shipping Administration, hereinafter referred to as the Administrator, is hereby authorized to issue a citation as public evidence of deserved honor and distinction to any United States ship or to any foreign ship operated by or for the account of the United States Maritime Commission or the War Shipping Administration which, subsequent to September 8, 1939, or during the present war has served or shall serve in outstanding action against attack or in gallant action in marine disasters or other emergencies at sea.

(b) The Administrator shall award a plaque to any ship so cited; and a replica of such plaque shall be preserved, under such regulations as the Administrator may prescribe, as a permanent historical record.

(c) The Administrator shall also award an appropriate citation ribbon bar to the master and each person serving on board such ship at the time of the action for which citation is made, as public evidence of such honor and distinction:
Provided, That whenever such master or person would be entitled hereunder to the award of an additional citation ribbon, a suitable device shall be awarded, in lieu thereof, to be attached to the ribbon originally awarded.

2. (a) There is hereby established the Merchant Marine Meritorious Service Medal, with accompanying ribbon and appurtenances, for award by the Admin-istrator, under such regulations as he shall prescribe, to any master, officer, or member of the crew of any United States ship, or any foreign ship operated by or for the account of the United States Maritime Commission or the War Shipping Administration who, subsequent to September 8, 1939, or during the present war has been or shall be officially commended by the Administrator for conduct or service of a meritorious character but not of such an outstanding character as would warrant an award of the Merchant Marine Distinguished Service Medal established pursuant to the act of April 11, 1942, ch. 241, 56 Stat. 217.

(b) No more than one Merchant Marine Meritorious Service Medal shall he awarded to any one person, but for each succeeding commendation justifying such an award a suitable device may be awarded to be worn with the medal and ribbon.

3. The Administrator is hereby authorized, until two years after the termination of the present war, to provide and issue, under such regulations as he may prescribe, a distinctive service ribbon bar to each master, officer, or member of the crew of any United States ship who shall have served at any time during the period beginning September 8, 1939, and ending December 6, 1941.

4. In case any person who is entitled to an award under this order dies before the award can be made to him, the award may be made to such representative of the deceased as the Administrator may deem proper.

5. The design of the plaque, medal, and ribbons herein authorized, shall not duplicate the design of any medals or ribbons awarded by the War or Navy Department. 6. The Administrator may delegate his authority hereunder and issue such other regulations as may be appropriate to carry out the provisions of this order.

Franklin D. Roosevelt

The White House, August 29, 1944.

The original period of the award was from 7 December 1941 to 25 July 1947; the award was reactivated by Public Law 759, 84th Congress, effective 24 July 1956.

merchant marine meritorious service medal

Legislation

Executive Order 9472

Establishing Certain Awards for the Merchant Marine [Federal Register Doc. 44 13133; Filed, August 29, 1944; 2:38 p.m.]

By virtue of the authority vested in me as President and as Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States, it is hereby ordered as follows:

1. (a) The Administrator of the War Shipping Administration, hereinafter referred to as the Administrator, is hereby authorized to issue a citation as public evidence of deserved honor and distinction to any United States ship or to any foreign ship operated by or for the account of the United States Maritime Commission or the War Shipping Administration which, subsequent to September 8, 1939, or during the present war has served or shall serve in outstanding action against attack or in gallant action in marine disasters or other emergencies at sea.

(b) The Administrator shall award a plaque to any ship so cited; and a replica of such plaque shall be preserved, under such regulations as the Administrator may prescribe, as a permanent historical record.

(c) The Administrator shall also award an appropriate citation ribbon bar to the master and each person serving on board such ship at the time of the action for which citation is made, as public evidence of such honor and distinction:
Provided, That whenever such master or person would be entitled hereunder to the award of an additional citation ribbon, a suitable device shall be awarded, in lieu thereof, to be attached to the ribbon originally awarded.

2. (a) There is hereby established the Merchant Marine Meritorious Service Medal, with accompanying ribbon and appurtenances, for award by the Admin-istrator, under such regulations as he shall prescribe, to any master, officer, or member of the crew of any United States ship, or any foreign ship operated by or for the account of the United States Maritime Commission or the War Shipping Administration who, subsequent to September 8, 1939, or during the present war has been or shall be officially commended by the Administrator for conduct or service of a meritorious character but not of such an outstanding character as would warrant an award of the Merchant Marine Distinguished Service Medal established pursuant to the act of April 11, 1942, ch. 241, 56 Stat. 217.

(b) No more than one Merchant Marine Meritorious Service Medal shall he awarded to any one person, but for each succeeding commendation justifying such an award a suitable device may be awarded to be worn with the medal and ribbon.

3. The Administrator is hereby authorized, until two years after the termination of the present war, to provide and issue, under such regulations as he may prescribe, a distinctive service ribbon bar to each master, officer, or member of the crew of any United States ship who shall have served at any time during the period beginning September 8, 1939, and ending December 6, 1941.

4. In case any person who is entitled to an award under this order dies before the award can be made to him, the award may be made to such representative of the deceased as the Administrator may deem proper.

5. The design of the plaque, medal, and ribbons herein authorized, shall not duplicate the design of any medals or ribbons awarded by the War or Navy Department. 6. The Administrator may delegate his authority hereunder and issue such other regulations as may be appropriate to carry out the provisions of this order.

Franklin D. Roosevelt

The White House, August 29, 1944.

The original period of the award was from 3 September 1939 to 25 July 1947; the award was reactivated by Public Law 759, 84th Congress, effective 24 July 1956.

mariner’s medal

Legislation

Public Law 78-52

78th Congress

AN ACT

To provide for the issuance of devices in recognition of the services of merchant sailors [H. R. 2281]

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the Administrator, War Shipping Administration, is hereby authorized to provide and issue

(a) a seamen’s service insignia of appropriate design to any person who, at any time during the period (hereinafter referred to as the war period) beginning December 7, 1941, and ending with the termination of the present war, serves on any vessel in the American merchant marine, and

(b) a seamen’s war zone insignia or device of appropriate design to any person who, at any time during the war period, serves on any vessel in the American merchant marine while sailing in any war or combat zone.

SEC. 2. The Administrator is authorized to provide and issue a seamen’s honor bar to any person who, at any time during the war period, serves on any vessel in the American merchant marine which, at the time of such service, is attacked or damaged by an instrumentality of war. The Administrator is further authorized to provide and issue a star (to be attached to such bar) to any such person who is forced to abandon such vessel when so attacked or damaged, with an additional star for each such abandonment.

SEC. 3. The Administrator is authorized to provide and award a medal of appropriate design and a ribbon, together with a rosette or other device to be worn in lieu thereof, to any person, who while serving on any vessel in the American merchant marine during the war period, is wounded, suffers physical injury, or suffers through dangerous exposure as a result of an act of an enemy of the United States.

SEC. 4. The Administrator shall prescribe appropriate conditions of eligibility for the issuance or award of insignia or medals under this Act. Not more than one insignia or medal of each type provided herein shall be issued or awarded to any one person, but. for each succeeding service of any person sufficient to justify the award of a medal under section 3 of this Act, the Administrator may award a suitable bar, emblem, or insignia to be worn with the medal. In case any person who performs service sufficient to justify the award of a medal under section 3 dies before the award can be made to him, the award may be made and the medal presented to such representative of the deceased as the Administrator deems proper. No award of any insignia, medal, or device shall be made hereunder after two years after the termination of the present war.

SEC. 5. The Administrator is authorized to approve a design for a seamen’s service flag which may be displayed, and a design for a service lapel button which may be worn, by members of the immediate family, of a person serving in the American merchant marine during the war period. In approving any design under this section, the Administrator may approve the design approved by the Secretary of War under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved October 17, 1942 (Public Law 750, Seventy-seventh Congress), but only if the Secretary of War shall consent thereto and the Administrator shall approve for use in connection therewith a distinctive insignia or other device designating service in the American merchant marine. The Administrator, upon approval of the design for such service flag and service lapel button, shall cause notice of such approval and a description of the flag and button to be published in the Federal Register.

SEC. 6. (a) The Administrator is authorized to prescribe such rules and regulations as may be appropriate to carry out the provisions of this Act.

(b) The Administrator is authorized to expend out of any funds available for expenditure by the War Shipping Administration such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.

Approved May 10, 1943

Further legislation determined that the award’s eligibility period was from 7 December 1941 to 25 July 1947.

merchant marine distinguished service medal

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Background

In the early years of the Second World War, despite industrial output destined for the United States’ future allied and increased military readiness, it found itself woefully unprepared for the realities of fighting and the logistics involved in conducting a global war. Aside from the steady capitulation of American territories in the Pacific and decimation of colonial outposts, the first individuals to face the brunt of the Axis’ wrath after the United States’ declaration of war were merchant seamen. Their ships were sunk with impunity, and the federal government was compelled to honor the heroism of the everyman who comprised the ships’ crews.

Legislation

Public Law 77-524

77th Congress

JOINT RESOLUTION

To provide decorations for outstanding conduct or service by persons serving in the American merchant marine. Apr. 11, 1942 [H. J. Res. 263]

Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the United States Maritime Commission is hereby authorized and directed, under such rules and regulations as it may prescribe, to provide and award a medal of such material and design and with such devices and inscriptions as the Commission may deem suitable to each person who in the American merchant marine, on or after September 3, 1939, has distinguished himself or during the war distinguishes himself by outstanding conduct or service in the line of duty. Such medals shall be presented with appropriate ceremony as specified by the Commission.

SEC. 2. There may be issued with each medal a rosette or other device to be worn in lieu of the medal. Not more than one medal shall be issued hereunder to any person, but for each succeeding instance sufficient to justify the award of a medal to such person the Commission may award a suitable bar or other emblem or insignia to be worn with the medal and the corresponding rosette or other device. In case any person who so distinguishes himself as to justify the award of a medal or decoration hereunder dies before the award can be made to him, the award may be made and the medal or decoration presented to such representative of the deceased as the Commission deems proper.

Approved, April 11, 1942.

The original period of the award was from 3 September 1939 to 25 July 1947; the award was reactivated by Public Law 759, 84th Congress, effective 24 July 1956.

U.S. Maritime Service Awards

The United States Maritime Service (USMS) was formally established in 1938, under a provision of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936. When the United States formally entered the Secord World War, the USMS became a critical element of the Nation’s war effort. A comprehensive training system was put in place, and USMS training schools were established across the nation. Thousands of seafarers and other experts served as instructors, who, in turn, helped train over 250,000 individuals, mostly men, to crew the ships of the U.S.-flag merchant marine.

This article examines the development and evolution of the United States Maritime Service (USMS) medals and awards program, detailing the historical context, design considerations, and qualification criteria for each decoration. It also analyzes the differences between the two major versions of the USMS Awards Manual, highlighting how the program has evolved to recognize distinguished service, professional achievement, and excellence among USMS personnel.

Origins of the United States Maritime Service

The USMS was established as a training organization, separate from the cadre of American merchant mariners themselves, and remains so today. While many USMS personnel were licensed or unlicensed mariners, their appointment to the USMS was made on the basis of their role as instructors, not mariners. When the USMS was established, there were no specific authorities related to the establishment of USMS-specific awards.

During the Secord World War, virtually all personnel involved in the training and instruction of mariners at the various USMS training schools received either an officer’s commission, or were enlisted (as petty officers and other non-commissioned ratings). Following the Secord World War, the USMS experienced a gradual decline, both in national visibility and in actual numbers. Most of the USMS training schools were closed after the Secord World War, but two remained in operation until 1954 (in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, New York, and Alameda, California).

The United States Maritime Service Today (2025)

Although the service was largely disbanded by the early 1950s, it remains in existence. The Maritime Administrator concurrently serves as the Commandant of the service, and holds the rank of Admiral. The vast majority of the remaining USMS personnel are faculty and staff serving at the Federal maritime academy, the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kings Point, New York. A small handful of commissioned officers can also be found at the State Maritime Academies; typically their respective superintendents and commandants hold USMS commissions.

Unlike the other uniformed services of the U.S., there is no correlation between rank and pay. USMS personnel are members of the Civil Service, and are compensated based on civilian pay scales. The General Schedule (GS) framework is used for non-faculty compensation, while a special Administratively Determined (AD) pay scale applies to faculty. There are no service-specific benefits, no USMS-related retirement. They are not recognized as veterans, due to their USMS status.

Development of the USMS Medals and Awards Program

The USMS medals and awards program has a relatively recent history despite the service’s establishment in 1938. In the mid-1990s, Captain Eric York Wallischeck, USMS, along with two colleagues, began developing designs for medals and ribbons along with general award criteria and guidelines. Initially, the proposal wasn’t supported by Academy leadership. However, with a change in USMMA leadership in 1998, a new Superintendent (a former Marine), Vice Admiral Joseph D. Stewart, USMS approved moving forward with the initiative.

From the beginning, a primary goal was to obtain specific legislative authority to establish these awards to ensure they had clear legal standing rather than merely representing a local recognition. Working with staff within the Maritime Administration’s policy, legal, and human resources offices, draft legislation was crafted and shepherded through the Department of Transportation, the Office of Management and Budget, and eventually through Congress. Ultimately, the proposal was included in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2004, which became Public Law 108–136 on November 24, 2003.

The law that supports the USMS medals program is currently codified at 46 U.S.C. § 51701, specifically item (d):

§51701. United States Maritime Service (a) General Authority.-The Secretary of Transportation may establish and maintain a voluntary organization, to be known as the United States Maritime Service, for the training of citizens of the United States to serve on merchant vessels of the United States and to perform functions to assist the United States merchant marine, as determined necessary by the Secretary. (b) Specific Authority.-The Secretary may- (1) determine the number of individuals to be enrolled for training and reserve purposes in the Service; (2) fix the rates of pay and allowances of the individuals without regard to chapter 51 or subchapter III of chapter 53 of title 5; (3) prescribe the course of study and the periods of training for the Service; and (4) prescribe the uniform of the Service and the rules on providing and wearing the uniform. (c) Ranks, Grades, and Ratings.-The ranks, grades, and ratings for personnel of the Service shall be the same as those prescribed for personnel of the Coast Guard. (d) Medals and Awards.-The Secretary may establish and maintain a medals and awards program to recognize distinguished service, superior achievement, professional performance, and other commendable achievement by personnel of the Service.

Once authority for the program was received, the development team worked closely with the Army Institute of Heraldry (AIOH) to design the ribbons and medals, using imagery, colors, and themes that had some connection to the sea, the merchant marine, and service history. Medal shapes were selected that were generally comparable to their military service counterparts.

On October 15, 2003, the program was formally launched. Awards continue to be made to this day.

USMS Personal Decorations

The USMS awards system follows a hierarchical structure similar to that of other uniformed services, with four levels of personal decorations, a unit award, and several service ribbons. Each decoration has specific eligibility requirements and design elements that reflect the maritime heritage of the service.

They are, in order of precedence:

1. USMS Distinguished Service Medal (DSM)

Authorization and Eligibility

The Distinguished Service Medal (DSM) is authorized under 5 U.S.C. 45 and US Department of Transportation Awards and Recognition System. The Maritime Administrator concurrently serves as the Commandant of the service, and holds the rank of Admiral. The USMMA Distinguished Service Medal is approved and awarded by the Maritime Administrator in the name of the President.

The Distinguished Service Medal is awarded to an individual who distinguishes himself or herself by exceptional performance or service that was of singularly outstanding benefit to the United States Maritime Service, the United States Merchant Marine Academy, or the United States Merchant Marine. This award may be presented in recognition of a specific act or initiative, or may be awarded in recognition of a specific period of sustained outstanding performance. To justify this decoration, an exceptional performance of duty, clearly above that normally expected, which has contributed materially to the success of a major department, office, operation, or project, is required. In general, the Distinguished Service Medal will be awarded only to those officers in senior positions of responsibility, or whose service is of significant scope to justify the award. However, this shall not be interpreted to preclude the award of the Distinguished Service Medal to any individual whose service meets the requirements. If there is any doubt as to the degree of service involved, the Superior Performance Medal is the more appropriate award.

Design Elements

Medal:

  • Design: Obverse: A USMS Crest in gold set in the center of an open ring of blue enamel, 1-1/2 inches in diameter, and displaying the words “FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MCMXXXVI”. The medal is suspended from the ribbon by a gold bar in the shape of the starboard profile of a Liberty Ship; however, the miniature medal shall not have a suspension bar. Reverse: The words “UNITED STATES MARITIME SERVICE” engraved around upper part of ring, with a space to engrave the name of the recipient.
  • Symbolism: The American eagle and shield represents loyalty and service to our nation, while the fouled anchor represents the Maritime Service’s seagoing heritage. The laurel branches are a traditional symbol of accomplishment and success, while the enameled ring represents continuity and service. The Roman numerals MCMXXXVI represent the year that the United States Maritime Service was established (with the Merchant Marine Act of 1936). The Liberty Ship suspension bar recalls the Maritime Service’s heroic actions during World War II, where the Liberty ship played a pivotal role in the Allied victory.

Ribbon:

  • Design: The ribbon is 1-3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/4″ Old Glory Blue (67178), 1/32″ Scarlet (67111), 13/16″ White (67199), 1/32″ Scarlet (67111), 1/4″ Old Glory Blue (67178).
  • Symbolism: The central band of white symbolizes truth and service. It is flanked by stripes of scarlet representing courage, fortitude and patriotism, and blue, representing wisdom and loyalty.

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2. USMS Superior Performance Medal (SPM)

Authorization and Eligibility

The Superior Performance Medal (SPM) is authorized under 5 U.S.C. 45 and US Department of Transportation Awards and Recognition System. The USMMA Superior Performance Medal is approved and awarded by the Superintendent in the name of the Secretary of Transportation.

Awarded to an individual who distinguishes himself or herself by superior professional performance, achievement or service. To justify this decoration, the service rendered must have been comparable to that required for the USMS Distinguished Service Medal, but of a lesser degree. In general, the Superior Performance Medal will be awarded to officers in positions of lesser responsibility who have performed such exceptionally meritorious service as to justify the award of the Distinguished Service Medal except as to degree of merit. However, this should not be interpreted to preclude the award of the Superior Performance Medal to any individual, regardless of grade or rate, whose acts or services meet the requirements. When the degree of achievement or service rendered, although meritorious, is not sufficient to warrant the award of the Superior Performance Medal, the Commendation Medal should be considered.

Design Elements

Medal:

  • Design: Obverse: A bronze USMS Crest in relief, surrounded with the words “UNITED STATES MARITIME SERVICE”, upon a 1″ disk with beveled edges, surrounded by the points of two, eight-pointed stars with beveled edges, 1-1/2″ in diameter. Reverse: The points of the compass rose on the reverse are modeled with the central portion plain, bearing the words “FOR SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE” engraved at top.
  • Symbolism: The American eagle and shield represents loyalty and service to our nation, while the fouled anchor represents the Maritime Service’s seagoing heritage. The laurel branches are a traditional symbol of accomplishment and success, and the underlying compass rose denotes leadership, direction, and guidance.

Ribbon:

  • Design: The ribbon is 1-3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/8 inch Purple (67115); 1/32 inch Steel Gray (67199); 3/16 inch Corsaire Blue (67177); 1/32 inch Steel Gray (67199); center 5/8 inch Purple (67115); 1/32 inch Steel Gray (67199); 3/16 inch Corsaire Blue (67177); 1/32 inch Steel Gray (67199); 1/8 inch Purple (67115).
  • Symbolism: The ribbon’s central theme of purple represents visionary leadership and justice. The thin steel gray stripes represent the merchant marine at war, while the choice of Corsaire Blue harkens back to the early role of American Merchant Mariners as privateers in the service of the United States.

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3. USMS Commendation Medal (COM)

Authorization and Eligibility

The Maritime Service Commendation Medal (COM) is authorized under 5 U.S.C. 45 and US Department of Transportation Awards and Recognition System. The USMMA Commendation Medal is awarded by the Superintendent in the name of Maritime Administrator.

Awarded to an individual who has distinguished himself or herself by commendable professional achievement(s) or service(s) worthy of special recognition such as to constitute a definite contribution to the United States Maritime Service, the United States Merchant Marine Academy, or the United States Merchant Marine. For Achievement that is outstanding and worthy of special recognition, such as an invention, or improvement in design, procedure or organization. For Service that is well above that usually expected of an individual commensurate with their grade or rate, sufficient to distinguish the individual above those performing similar services, and above that degree of excellence that can be appropriately reflected in the individual’s performance appraisal.

Design Elements

Medal:

  • Design: Obverse: On a 1-3/8 inch wide bronze hexagon, point up, the USMS Crest, but without the laurel leaves. Reverse: The words “UNITED STATES MARITIME SERVICE”.
  • Symbolism: The American eagle and shield represents loyalty and service to our nation, while the fouled anchor represents the Maritime Service’s seagoing heritage.

Ribbon:

  • Design: The ribbon is 1-3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 3/32 inch Old China Blue (67178), 3/32 inch White (67101); center 1 inch Old China Blue (67169); 3/32 inch White (67101); and 3/32 inch Old China Blue (67178).
  • Symbolism: The theme of blue and white represents wisdom and truth; the color Old China Blue recognizes the great American clipper ships engaged in the China trade, and is a shade suggests both sea and sky.

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4. USMS Professional Achievement Medal (PAM)

Authorization and Eligibility

The Maritime Service Professional Achievement Medal (PAM) is authorized under 5 U.S.C. 45 and US Department of Transportation Awards and Recognition System. The USMMA Professional Achievement Medal is awarded by the Superintendent in the name of Maritime Administrator.

Awarded to an officer for commendable service or achievement of a professional nature. This award shall be presented based upon sustained performance or specific achievement of such merit as to warrant further tangible recognition than is possible through the normal evaluation channels.

Design Elements

Medal:

  • Design: Obverse: The USMS shield centered upon a bronze medal 1-3/8″ in diameter, with a beveled edge 5/16″ wide upon which the four cardinal points of the compass have been picked out with triangles bearing the letters “N”, “S”, “E”, and “W” and bearing the words “UNITED STATES MARITIME SERVICE” in the interstices of the compass points. Reverse: The words “FOR PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT” at top, with a fouled anchor below.
  • Symbolism: The simple Federal shield represents loyalty and service to our nation, while the fouled anchor represents the Maritime Service’s seagoing heritage.

Ribbon:

  • Design: The ribbon is 1-3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/8 inch Imperial Blue (67175); 3/16 inch Orange (67110); center 3/4 inch Steel Gray (67199); 3/16 inch Orange (67110); and 1/8 inch Imperial Blue (67175).
  • Symbolism: The central band of gray represents the merchant ships of World War II convoys, where the Maritime Service earned its first professional achievements. It is flanked by orange (enthusiasm, vigor) and blue (wisdom, loyalty). Orange and blue are also colors associated with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

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USMS Unit Award

USMS Outstanding Unit Award (OUA)

The purpose of unit awards is to foster unit morale, incentive, and esprit de corps through prompt recognition of outstanding performance of group effort. Unit awards recognize entire organizations for outstanding heroism or achievement, especially those performed under arduous circumstances, or extraordinary situations that involve Academy interests. They are restricted to the recognition of acts or services that clearly and distinctly, by nature and magnitude, place the unit’s performance significantly above that of other units performing similar missions. They are not intended to recognize individual actions, but to acknowledge the combined efforts of the organization. The performance should be that which can be recognized adequately in no other way.

Authorization and Eligibility

The Maritime Service Outstanding Unit Award (OUA) is authorized under 5 U.S.C. 45 and US Department of Transportation Awards and Recognition System. Awarded by the Superintendent, to any unit, team, or other workgroup for commendable achievement. This award shall be presented for achievement based upon exceptional performance or specific achievement(s) of a superlative nature, and shall be of such merit as to warrant further tangible recognition than is possible through the normal evaluation channels.

Design Elements

Design: The ribbon is 1-3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 5/32 inch Ultramarine Blue (67118), 3/32 Old Glory Red (67156); center 7/8 inch Steel Gray (67199); 3/32 Old Glory Red (67156); and 5/32 inch Ultramarine Blue (67118); enclosed within a 1/16 inch wide gold frame embossed with a laurel-leaf pattern.

Symbolism: The central band of gray represents the merchant ships of World War II convoys, the ultimate test of teamwork and unit cooperation. It is flanked by stripes of Old Glory Red, representing loyalty to the American Flag, and Ultramarine Blue, representing the wisdom required of merchant mariners. The gold frame of laurel leaves represents loyalty and achievement.

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USMS Service Awards

In addition to the personal decorations and unit award, the USMS has established several service ribbons to recognize specific achievements and qualifications.

1. Sustained Performance Ribbon (SPR)

Authorization and Eligibility

The Sustained Performance Ribbon may be awarded to an individual who has maintained a superior level of performance for a period of five (5) consecutive years. During this period, an individual’s performance evaluations must have been “Exceeded Expectations” or “Outstanding” in every critical Job Element. Individuals must not have been suspended, or received any letter of reprimand or other citations for improper conduct, during the period of qualification. In the event of such improper conduct, the measured period of performance shall commence with the date of the offense.

In addition to service at USMMA, the term of service considered for this award may also include temporary assignment elsewhere within the federal government, recall to active duty in the armed forces, or service with the Military Sealift Command. Individuals who were granted a sabbatical or other form of professional leave during this period, not to exceed two years, would be permitted five years of superior performance during a maximum seven-year period.

Design Elements

Ribbon: The ribbon is 1-3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/16 inch Imperial Blue (67175); 1/16 inch Steel Gray (67199); 1/16 inch Imperial Blue (67175); 1/16 inch Steel Gray (67199); 1/16 inch Imperial Blue (67175); 1/16 inch Steel Gray (67199); center 5/8 inch Imperial Blue (67175); 1/16 inch Steel Gray (67199); 1/16 inch Imperial Blue (67175); 1/16 inch Steel Gray (67199); 1/16 inch Imperial Blue (67175); 1/16 inch Steel Gray (67199) and 1/16 inch Imperial Blue (67175).

Symbolism: The theme of blue and gray represents wisdom and truth, both elemental requirements of long and honorable service.

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2. Academic Achievement Ribbon

Authorization and Eligibility

Awarded to an individual who has been awarded an advanced degree (Master’s Degree or higher) by an accredited academic institution.

A 3/16″ bronze star may be added for each additional master’s degree. A 3/16″ silver star shall be affixed to the ribbon to indicate a terminal degree. No more than a total of four stars (either bronze or silver) may be affixed to the ribbon.

Design Elements

Ribbon: The ribbon is 1-3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/16 inch Purple (67115); 1/16 inch Old Gold (67105); 1/16 inch Black (67138); 1/16 inch Old Gold (67105); center 7/8 inch Purple (67115); 1/16 inch Old Gold (67105); 1/16 inch Black (67138); 1/16 inch Old Gold (67105); and 1/16 inch Purple (67115).

Symbolism: The ground of purple represents the wisdom associated with the academic community. The flanking stripes of gold and black represent constancy and prudence.

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3. Deck Officer’s Ribbon

Authorization and Eligibility

Awarded to an individual who has been awarded and maintains a USCG Deck Officer’s license, including those “Renewed for Continuity.” Qualification for the Deck Officer’s Ribbon signifies acquisition of specific professional skills, knowledge and military experience that result in qualifications above those required of other Maritime Service personnel serving. This qualification must be obtained through a formal qualification program and successful completion of the written exam and other requirements imposed upon an individual by the U.S. Coast Guard.

3/16″ bronze stars shall be affixed to the ribbon to indicate the particular level of license held: Third Mate, ribbon only; Second Mate, one star; Chief Mate, two stars; Master, three stars.

Design Elements

Ribbon: The ribbon is 1-3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/16 inch Black (67138); 1/16 Steel Gray (67199); 13/32 inch Old Gold (67105); 1/16 inch Black (67138); 1/16 inch Steel Gray (67199); center 1/16 inch Imperial Blue (67175); 1/16 inch Steel Gray (67199); 1/16 inch Black (67138); 13/32 inch Old Gold (67105); 1/16 inch Steel Gray (67199); and 1/16 inch Black (67138).

Symbolism: The colors of gold and black are traditionally associated with the uniforms of deck officers, while the central stripes of blue and gray represent wisdom and truth.

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4. Engine Officer’s Ribbon

Authorization and Eligibility

Awarded to an individual who has been awarded and maintains a USCG Engine Officer’s license, including those “Renewed for Continuity.” Qualification for the Engine Officer’s Ribbon signifies acquisition of specific professional skills, knowledge and military experience that result in qualifications above those required of other Maritime Service personnel serving. This qualification must be obtained through a formal qualification program and successful completion of the written exam and other requirements imposed upon an individual by the U.S. Coast Guard.

3/16″ bronze stars shall be affixed to the ribbon to indicate the particular level of license held: Third Assistant, ribbon only; Second Assistant, one star; First Assistant, two stars; Chief Engineer, three stars.

Design Elements

Ribbon: The ribbon is 1-3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/16 inch Black (67138); 1/16 Steel Gray (67199); 13/32 inch Old Glory Red (67156); 1/16 inch Black (67138); 1/16 inch Steel Gray (67199); center 1/16 inch Imperial Blue (67175); 1/16 inch Steel Gray (67199); 1/16 inch Black (67138); 13/32 inch Old Glory Red (67156); 1/16 inch Steel Gray (67199); and 1/16 inch Black (67138).

Symbolism: The colors of red and black are traditionally associated with the uniforms of engine officers, while the central stripes of blue and gray represent wisdom and truth.

The USMS Medals and Awards Manual

Two major versions of the USMS Medals and Awards Manual have been developed since the program’s inception.

The Original Manual (July 2003)

The first USMS Medals and Awards Manual was revised on July 10, 2003, establishing the official guidelines for the award program before its official launch later that year. This manual laid the groundwork for the program, establishing the precedence of awards, criteria for eligibility, and administrative procedures.

The Third Edition (March 2021)

The third edition of the USMS Medals and Awards Manual, dated March 2021, updated the guidelines for uniformed Staff and Faculty and their Supervisors at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York. This revised manual refined many aspects of the program based on nearly two decades of implementation experience.

The USMS Medals and Awards program has evolved since its inception, as reflected in the differences between the original 2003 manual and the updated 2021 edition. Key differences include:

Organizational Structure

Both manuals maintain a similar overall structure, with chapters dedicated to general information, personal decorations, unit awards, and service awards. However, the 2021 edition (3rd Edition) includes additional chapters on award precedence and identification badges/insignia, reflecting an expansion of the program.

Authority and Approval

The 2003 Manual placed approval authority for the Distinguished Service Medal with the Secretary of Transportation, while the 2021 Manual delegates this authority to the Maritime Administrator. Both manuals maintain the Superintendent of USMMA as the approval authority for lower-tier awards.

Eligibility Requirements

The eligibility requirements for awards have been refined in the 2021 edition:

  1. Distinguished Service Medal: Both manuals maintain similar criteria, emphasizing “exceptional performance or service that was of singularly outstanding benefit.”
  2. Professional Achievement Medal: The 2003 manual specified this award as being for “an officer of the grade of lieutenant commander and junior thereto,” while the 2021 manual removes this rank restriction, opening eligibility to all officers.
  3. Sustained Performance Ribbon: The 2003 manual required performance evaluations to be “above average, exceeding the ‘Proficient,’ ‘Satisfactory’ or ‘Fully Successful’ levels,” while the 2021 manual uses contemporary evaluation terminology, requiring “Exceeded Expectations” or “Outstanding” in every critical Job Element.

Additional Awards and Recognition

The 2021 manual includes sections on breast insignia and command insignia, providing guidelines for the Command-At-Sea Badge for both Deck and Engine Officers, as well as the Sea Service Badge. These additions reflect an expansion of the recognition program beyond medals and ribbons.

Conclusion

The United States Maritime Service Medals and Awards Program represents a significant effort to recognize the contributions and achievements of USMS personnel. Developed relatively recently compared to the long history of the service itself, the program combines maritime traditions with contemporary award practices.

The program’s design elements—from the Liberty Ship on the Distinguished Service Medal to the compass points on the Professional Achievement Medal—reflect the maritime heritage of the USMS. The color choices, especially the use of blues, grays, and golds, symbolize service at sea, while the award criteria establish clear standards for recognition of exceptional performance.

The evolution of the program from 2003 to 2021 demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a relevant and meaningful recognition system that adapts to changing evaluation standards and organizational needs. By establishing this comprehensive awards program, the USMS has created a valuable means of fostering pride, esprit de corps, and excellence among its personnel, ensuring the continuation of its distinguished traditions of service to the maritime community and the nation.