Awards and Decorations are issued for both peace and war by the United States Merchant Marine. These awards are issued by The Maritime Administration, Department of Transportation. Medal and decorations are awarded to the members of United States Armed Forces as a solute and appreciation for their brave and distinguishing performances. Here are few well known bravery awards which are mentioned below.
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Merchant Marine Distinguished Service Medal This decoration is the highest award that can be awarded to the member for his or her outstanding performance. This award is equivalent to the Medal of Honor awarded by the Department of Defense. It can be awarded to any seamen of the United State Merchant Marine for the service in the line of duty. |
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Merchant Marine Meritorious Service Medal This decoration is awarded to any seamen of any ship that was operated by the War Shipping Administration. This award is for the meritorious service commended by the Administrator for their distinguishing conduct. It can be worn by the active seamen on their uniform. |
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Merchant Marine Gallant Ship Citation Ribbon This decoration of United States Merchant Marine is awarded to seamen and officers, who has served on a United States Vessel or has participated in a gallant action or outstanding marine disasters for the purpose of saving life and property at the sea. This ribbon has a silver seahorse at the middle of the ribbon. A bronze award that is awarded to the ship is called as Gallant Ship Citation Plaque. |
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Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement This United States Merchant Marine decoration is awarded by the United States Maritime Administration. This decoration is awarded to merchant mariners who have been a part of humanitarian natured operations. This award is given to an individual or a group of members. |
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Merchant Marine Mariner's Medal This decoration is a recognition award for the seamen who were wounded or killed during the conflict against the opposite force. This award is given to the beneficiary if the seaman dies before the award is presented to him. |
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Merchant Marine Combat Bar This decoration is awarded to the Merchant Marine member who served the ship when it was damaged or attacked by the enemy’s instrument during war. |
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Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal This decoration is awarded to the US merchant seamen, who supported the US Flag ships and the allied military forces. This medal is not assigned to any particular operation or enemy conflict. |
