History

The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal was intially established as the "Navy Commendation Ribbon" by the Secretary of the Navy (Navy Regulation) on January 11, 1944. In 1950, the Medal Pendant was introduced, and in 1960, the award took its current form as the "Navy Commendation Medal." However, it wasn't until 1994 that the award was officially known as the "Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal." The Bronze Medal is awarded to junior Officers, enlisted men, and other foreign military personnel who served in any capacity with the Navy or the Marine Corps in recognition of meritorious service, meritorious achievement, and acts of heroism. The distinguishing service which is eligible for the award must be less than that which is required to merit the recognition of an award of a Bronze Star, Air Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, or Navy and Marine Corps Medal. Eligible service must still go beyond the normal expectations of duty and significantly contribute to Naval operations. The award of the Medal was made retroactive to reward service since December 6, 1941.

Gold or silver star emblems may be worn on the ribbon to denote additional awards of the Medal, while a bronze "V" device may be worn to denote awards made in recognition of acts of heroism.

The Medal is similar in design to the Army Commendation Medal (see USA126).

It is uncertain if the reverse is officially engraved with the recipient's details.