Military Ribbons

Military ribbons are categorized by type: service ribbons, campaign ribbons, unit awards, training ribbons, and personal achievement ribbons.

• Service ribbons are earned by completing a tour of duty during a specified time.
• Campaign ribbons are awarded to those who serve during a specific campaign, within the area of operations.
• Training ribbons are earned by successful completion of military training or a military school.
• Unit Award ribbons are awarded to units who reach a certain level of success. Each member of the unit receives the award.
• Personal awards are for personal achievement (good conduct, achievement, etc...).

Each medal has an accompanying ribbon. However, not all military ribbons have an accompanying medal. Some ribbons are categorized as “ribbon only” awards. The Army and Navy Presidential Unit Citation were the first U.S. “ribbon only” awards. Most ribbons are simple, but some are distinguished by a gold frame with a Laurel Leaf design around the border.

The “ribbon only” award originated in various parts of Germany and all were framed. Germany called the ribbons “schnalle”, which translates to "buckle" in English. With the gold frame, the ribbons had the appearance of a buckle.

The U.S. Army reintroduced the framed ribbons to the U.S. military during WWII and soon other branches followed. It’s believed that other counties followed suit, as well. Several foreign ribbons issued to U.S. Military (such as the Korea Defense) are adorned with the gold frame.

There are currently two sizes of gold frames. The Large frame is reserved for Army units and members. The small frame is used by all the other branches