Overview
The United States Coast Guard awards system recognizes service members for heroism, meritorious service, and professional achievement. The system includes personal decorations, unit awards, campaign and service medals, and various ribbons and devices.
Medal of Honor
Only one Coast Guardsman has received the Medal of Honor: Signalman First Class Douglas Munro, awarded posthumously for his heroic actions during the evacuation of Marines at Point Cruz, Guadalcanal, on September 27, 1942.
Order of Precedence - Personal Decorations
| # | Medal | Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Medal of Honor | Conspicuous gallantry at risk of life above and beyond the call of duty |
| 2 | Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal | Exceptionally meritorious service in duty of great responsibility |
| 3 | Silver Star | Gallantry in action against an enemy |
| 4 | Legion of Merit | Exceptionally meritorious conduct in performance of outstanding services |
| 5 | Distinguished Flying Cross | Heroism or extraordinary achievement in aerial flight |
| 6 | Coast Guard Medal | Heroism not involving conflict with an enemy |
| 7 | Gold Lifesaving Medal | Rescue at extreme risk of life |
| 8 | Bronze Star Medal | Heroic or meritorious service in combat |
| 9 | Purple Heart | Wounds or death as result of enemy action |
| 10 | Meritorious Service Medal | Outstanding meritorious service |
| 11 | Air Medal | Meritorious achievement in aerial flight |
| 12 | Silver Lifesaving Medal | Rescue at significant risk of life |
| 13 | Coast Guard Commendation Medal | Meritorious service or achievement |
| 14 | Coast Guard Achievement Medal | Professional achievement or leadership |
| 15 | Commandant's Letter of Commendation | Commendable performance |
Lifesaving Medals
A Coast Guard Tradition
The Gold and Silver Lifesaving Medals are among the oldest awards presented by the United States, dating back to 1874. They recognize heroism in saving or attempting to save lives from the perils of the water.