The United States Marine Corps (USMC) has a long-standing tradition of recognizing the achievements and service of its personnel through the award of ribbons and badges. The proper placement of these awards on a Marine’s uniform is essential to maintaining the dignity and professionalism of the Corps. In this article, we will explore the guidelines for the placement of USMC ribbons and badges on the uniform, as well as provide an overview of the various awards and their significance.
Ribbons
Ribbons are worn on the left side of the uniform, above the left breast pocket. The order of precedence for ribbons is as follows:
- Personal decorations (e.g., Medal of Honor, Navy Cross)
- Unit awards (e.g., Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Unit Commendation)
- Service awards (e.g., Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon)
- Campaign and service medals (e.g., Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal)
- Foreign awards and decorations
The ribbons are arranged in a specific order, with the most senior award on the top row and the most junior award on the bottom row. The maximum number of ribbons that can be worn on the uniform is three rows, with a maximum of four ribbons per row.
Badges
Badges are worn on the left side of the uniform, below the ribbons. The order of precedence for badges is as follows:
- Combat badges (e.g., Combat Action Ribbon, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat “V” device)
- Special skill badges (e.g., Parachutist Badge, Scuba Diver Badge)
- Marksmanship badges (e.g., Expert Rifleman Badge, Sharpshooter Rifleman Badge)
- Identification badges (e.g., Marine Corps Security Guard Badge, Drill Instructor Badge)
The badges are arranged in a specific order, with the most senior badge on the top row and the most junior badge on the bottom row. The maximum number of badges that can be worn on the uniform is two rows, with a maximum of four badges per row.
Devices
Devices are small ornaments that are attached to ribbons and badges to indicate specific achievements or qualifications. The most common devices used in the USMC are:
- Bronze stars: indicate multiple awards of the same ribbon
- Silver stars: indicate five awards of the same ribbon
- Gold stars: indicate six or more awards of the same ribbon
- “V” device: indicates valor or combat heroism
- Combat “V” device: indicates combat action
Devices are attached to the ribbon or badge in a specific order, with the most senior device on the left and the most junior device on the right.
Uniform Regulations
The uniform regulations for the USMC are outlined in the Marine Corps Uniform Regulations (MCO P1020.34). The regulations provide detailed guidance on the wear and appearance of the uniform, including the placement of ribbons and badges.
In addition to the regulations, Marines are also expected to follow certain guidelines when wearing their uniform. For example, ribbons and badges should be worn in a neat and orderly manner, with no wrinkles or creases. The uniform should be pressed and clean, with all buttons and fasteners securely fastened.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the proper placement of USMC ribbons and badges on the uniform is essential to maintaining the dignity and professionalism of the Corps. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, Marines can ensure that their uniform is worn correctly and with pride.
It’s worth noting that the uniform regulations are subject to change, and Marines should always consult the latest regulations and guidance from their chain of command to ensure that their uniform is worn correctly.
What is the order of precedence for USMC ribbons?
+The order of precedence for USMC ribbons is as follows: personal decorations, unit awards, service awards, campaign and service medals, and foreign awards and decorations.
How many rows of ribbons can be worn on the USMC uniform?
+The maximum number of rows of ribbons that can be worn on the USMC uniform is three, with a maximum of four ribbons per row.
What is the purpose of devices on USMC ribbons and badges?
+Devices are small ornaments that are attached to ribbons and badges to indicate specific achievements or qualifications, such as multiple awards or combat action.
In the following sections, we will explore the history and significance of the USMC ribbons and badges, as well as provide guidance on how to properly wear and maintain the uniform.
History of USMC Ribbons and Badges
The USMC has a long and storied history, dating back to 1775. Over the years, the Corps has developed a system of awards and decorations to recognize the achievements and service of its personnel. The ribbons and badges worn on the uniform are a key part of this system, and each one has its own unique history and significance.
For example, the Medal of Honor is the highest personal decoration that can be awarded to a Marine, and it is reserved for those who have distinguished themselves by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty. The Medal of Honor is awarded by the President of the United States, and it is considered one of the most prestigious awards in the US military.
Significance of USMC Ribbons and Badges
The ribbons and badges worn on the USMC uniform are more than just decorative items - they are a symbol of the Marine’s achievements and service. Each ribbon and badge represents a specific accomplishment or qualification, and they are worn with pride by Marines who have earned them.
For example, the Combat Action Ribbon is awarded to Marines who have engaged in combat action, and it is a symbol of their bravery and sacrifice. The Expert Rifleman Badge is awarded to Marines who have demonstrated exceptional marksmanship skills, and it is a symbol of their proficiency and dedication to their craft.
Proper Wear and Maintenance of the Uniform
The USMC uniform is a symbol of the Corps’ professionalism and dignity, and it should be worn and maintained with pride. Marines should ensure that their uniform is clean and pressed, with all buttons and fasteners securely fastened.
Ribbons and badges should be worn in a neat and orderly manner, with no wrinkles or creases. The uniform should be fitted properly, with the sleeves and trousers-breaking at the correct length.
In addition to proper wear and maintenance, Marines should also ensure that their uniform is in good condition. This includes regular cleaning and pressing, as well as replacing any worn or damaged items.
By following these guidelines and taking pride in their uniform, Marines can ensure that they are representing the Corps with dignity and professionalism.
As a former Marine, I can attest to the importance of wearing the uniform with pride. The ribbons and badges on the uniform are a symbol of our achievements and service, and they should be worn with dignity and respect.
In the next section, we will explore the different types of ribbons and badges that can be worn on the USMC uniform, as well as provide guidance on how to properly display them.
Types of USMC Ribbons and Badges
The USMC has a wide range of ribbons and badges that can be worn on the uniform, each with its own unique history and significance. Some of the most common types of ribbons and badges include:
- Personal decorations: These are awards that are presented to individual Marines for their achievements and service. Examples include the Medal of Honor, the Navy Cross, and the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal.
- Unit awards: These are awards that are presented to units for their achievements and service. Examples include the Presidential Unit Citation and the Navy Unit Commendation.
- Service awards: These are awards that are presented to Marines for their service in specific campaigns or operations. Examples include the Afghanistan Campaign Medal and the Iraq Campaign Medal.
- Campaign and service medals: These are awards that are presented to Marines for their service in specific campaigns or operations. Examples include the World War II Victory Medal and the Korean Service Medal.
- Foreign awards and decorations: These are awards that are presented to Marines by foreign governments for their service and achievements. Examples include the French Croix de Guerre and the German Iron Cross.
Each of these types of ribbons and badges has its own unique history and significance, and they should be worn with pride by Marines who have earned them.
Step-by-Step Guide to Wearing USMC Ribbons and Badges
- Ensure that your uniform is clean and pressed, with all buttons and fasteners securely fastened.
- Arrange your ribbons in the correct order of precedence, with the most senior award on the top row and the most junior award on the bottom row.
- Attach any devices to your ribbons and badges, such as bronze stars or combat "V" devices.
- Wear your ribbons and badges in a neat and orderly manner, with no wrinkles or creases.
- Ensure that your uniform is fitted properly, with the sleeves and trousers-breaking at the correct length.
In the final section, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the USMC uniform regulations, including guidance on how to properly wear and maintain the uniform.
Comprehensive Guide to USMC Uniform Regulations
The USMC uniform regulations are outlined in the Marine Corps Uniform Regulations (MCO P1020.34). The regulations provide detailed guidance on the wear and appearance of the uniform, including the placement of ribbons and badges.
The regulations cover a wide range of topics, including:
- The types of uniforms that can be worn by Marines, including the dress uniform, the service uniform, and the utility uniform.
- The insignia and devices that can be worn on the uniform, including ribbons, badges, and rank insignia.
- The proper wear and maintenance of the uniform, including guidance on how to clean and press the uniform, and how to replace worn or damaged items.
- The regulations also provide guidance on how to properly display the uniform, including guidance on how to wear the uniform for formal and informal events.
By following these regulations and taking pride in their uniform, Marines can ensure that they are representing the Corps with dignity and professionalism.
Pros and Cons of Wearing the USMC Uniform
Pros
- The uniform is a symbol of the Corps' professionalism and dignity.
- The uniform is a way to display achievement and service.
- The uniform is a way to show pride and loyalty to the Corps.
Cons
- The uniform can be uncomfortable and restrictive.
- The uniform can be expensive to maintain and replace.
- The uniform can be a target for criticism and ridicule.
In conclusion, the USMC ribbons and badges are an important part of the Marine Corps uniform, and they should be worn with pride and dignity. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, Marines can ensure that their uniform is worn correctly and with pride.
