Navy and Marine Corps Medal
Navy and Marine Corps Medal
DESCRIPTION
The Navy and Marine Corps Medal is the highest decoration awarded for non-combat heroism by Navy and Marine personnel. This award recognizes acts of heroism involving voluntary risk of life that are not directly related to armed conflict with an enemy force. It is reserved for exceptional courage demonstrated during emergencies such as fires, natural disasters, or the rescue of personnel from grave danger. The act must stand out significantly above normal expectations for duty in non-combat scenarios.
HISTORY
The Navy and Marine Corps Medal was established by an Act of Congress in August 1942 to award personnel who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy. It is the Navy/Marine Corps equivalent of the Army's Soldier's Medal. It is a prestigious decoration, ranking immediately below the Bronze Star Medal and Distinguished Flying Cross in precedence when worn on a uniform.
PREREQUISITES
Non-Combat Heroism
The action must be a voluntary act of heroism performed while not engaged in armed conflict against an opposing enemy force.
Voluntary Risk of Life
The recipient must have voluntarily exposed themselves to extreme and imminent danger to save another life or prevent critical damage.
Superior Courage
The level of courage displayed must be clearly superior to what is normally expected of an individual in such a dangerous situation.
Verification
Requires a detailed recommendation and endorsement from the senior unit leader or officer who witnessed the heroic act.