Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal
Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal (German Marine & Marine Corps Recognition Medal) is a Commendation Medal of the armed forces of the United States , which is awarded for sustained military merit in direct contact with the enemy and the Bronze Star cannot be used.
All branches of the armed forces have their own Commendation Medal , the Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal is intended for the military service of the United States Navy and United States Marine Corps .
The Commendation Medals were awarded for the first time by the United States Navy and the United States Coast Guard in 1943 as a service ribbon , and only from 1960 as full medals.
Multiple awards are shown in the Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal with a gold or silver Service Star .
In the Order of Precedence the Commendation Medals rank below the Aerial Achievement Medal and above the Achievement Medals .