Coast Guard Special Ops Service Ribbon: A Detailed Overview

The Coast Guard Special Operations Service Ribbon is a prestigious award given to members of the United States Coast Guard who have demonstrated exceptional bravery, dedication, and skill in the performance of their duties. This article will delve into the history, eligibility criteria, design, and significance of this distinguished honor.

History of the Coast Guard Special Operations Service Ribbon

The Coast Guard Special Operations Service Ribbon was established on October 1, 2004, by the Department of Defense. It was created to recognize the unique contributions of Coast Guard personnel who serve in special operations units, such as the Coast Guard Special Warfare Command.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for the Coast Guard Special Operations Service Ribbon is quite stringent. To qualify, a Coast Guard member must meet the following criteria:

• Be a member of the Coast Guard for at least one year.
• Have completed a special operations training program, such as the Coast Guard Special Warfare Operator Course.
• Have served in a special operations unit for at least one year.
• Have performed duties that require exceptional bravery, dedication, and skill.

Additionally, Coast Guard members who have been awarded the Purple Heart or who have been killed or mortally wounded in action are also eligible for the ribbon.

Design of the Coast Guard Special Operations Service Ribbon

The Coast Guard Special Operations Service Ribbon is a silver and blue ribbon with a central emblem. The ribbon measures 1.5 inches wide and features a blue field with a silver border. The central emblem consists of a Coast Guard cutter, a surf zone, and a sky, symbolizing the diverse operations performed by special operations units.

Below the emblem, there is a silver bar with the words “Special Operations” inscribed in blue. The ribbon is worn on the left side of the wearer’s uniform, above the service medals.

Significance of the Coast Guard Special Operations Service Ribbon

The Coast Guard Special Operations Service Ribbon is a symbol of the exceptional dedication and bravery of Coast Guard members who serve in special operations units. It is a testament to their commitment to protecting the nation’s maritime interests and ensuring the safety of its citizens.

Recipients of the ribbon are often involved in high-risk missions, such as counter-terrorism, drug interdiction, and search and rescue operations. Their actions often place them in harm’s way, and the ribbon is a recognition of their unwavering courage and professionalism.

Table: Coast Guard Special Operations Service Ribbon Recipients

The Coast Guard Special Operations Service Ribbon is a highly respected award within the Coast Guard and the broader military community. It serves as a reminder of the vital role that special operations units play in protecting the nation’s interests and ensuring the safety of its citizens.

As the Coast Guard continues to evolve and adapt to the changing security landscape, the importance of its special operations units and the recognition they receive through the Coast Guard Special Operations Service Ribbon will only grow.