Military medals and ribbons serve as tangible symbols of valor, achievement, and service in the armed forces. These decorations honor the sacrifices and accomplishments of service members, showcasing their dedication to duty and country. From recognizing acts of heroism to commemorating years of faithful service, military medals and ribbons tell a visual story of a soldier’s career and contributions.
The tradition of awarding military decorations dates back centuries, with modern systems evolving to reflect the complexities of contemporary warfare and peacetime service. Today’s military medals and ribbons come in various designs, colors, and levels of prestige, each carrying its own significance within the military hierarchy. Whether displayed on a dress uniform or preserved as family heirlooms, these awards hold deep meaning for service members and their loved ones.
When considering military medals and ribbons, authenticity is paramount. Genuine decorations are crafted to exacting standards, often featuring intricate details and high-quality materials. It’s crucial to verify the legitimacy of any medal or ribbon, especially if purchasing as a collector or for a veteran. Additionally, proper display and care are essential to maintain the integrity and appearance of these cherished symbols of service.
Best Military Medals and Ribbons
Looking to honor a service member or display your own achievements? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up the top military medals and ribbons available, perfect for showcasing valor and service with pride.
Skeleteen Combat Ribbons
You’ll find these military-style ribbons perfect for costume parties and dress-up events, offering a realistic look without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Authentic appearance
- Versatile for various costumes
- Child-safe attachments
Cons
- Short pins may not secure well
- Ribbons can detach easily
- Limited durability
These Skeleteen Combat Ribbons add a touch of authenticity to your military-inspired costumes. Measuring 4.5″ wide and 3″ high, they’re an ideal size for both adults and children. The set features three individual metal attachment clips, designed with child safety in mind.
For Halloween or themed parties, these ribbons can transform your outfit into a convincing military ensemble. They’re particularly great for creating a Colonel Mustard look when paired with a yellow jacket and pants. The versatility extends to theater productions and school projects where actual military awards can’t be used.
While the ribbons offer a realistic appearance, some users have noted issues with attachment. The pins might be too short to securely fasten through multiple layers of clothing. Additionally, the ribbon-covered sections may start to come loose, even in the package. Despite these drawbacks, the overall look of the product receives praise for its authenticity.
Vintage Military Medals
These eye-catching military medals offer a perfect blend of style and authenticity for your costume needs.
Pros
- Variety of designs in one set
- Easy to attach with clip pins
- Versatile for multiple costume applications
Cons
- Smaller size than some may expect
- Not made of real metal
- Pins may be short for thick fabrics
You’ll love the vintage charm these military medals bring to your costume or craft project. The set includes four distinct styles, giving you plenty of options to mix and match. Each medal boasts a unique design that captures the essence of military honors, adding an air of authenticity to your outfit.
Attaching these medals is a breeze thanks to the sturdy clip pins. You won’t have to worry about them falling off during your event or performance. The pins are designed to keep the medals securely in place, so you can focus on enjoying your costume without any wardrobe malfunctions.
While not made of actual metal, these medals are crafted from high-quality materials that look convincing from a distance. They’re lightweight, which means you can wear multiple medals without feeling weighed down. Keep in mind that their compact size makes them perfect for creating a subtle, tasteful look rather than an overstated display.
Vintage Military Medal Set
You should consider this vintage military medal set for its authentic look and versatile styling options at an affordable price.
Pros
- Four distinct medal styles
- High-quality alloy construction
- Easy to attach to various garments
Cons
- Small size may disappoint some
- Limited to costume use
- May not suit all uniform styles
This retro military medal set offers an impressive array of options for costume enthusiasts and history buffs alike. With four unique designs featuring eagles, stars, and rudders, you’ll have the flexibility to create different looks for various occasions.
The medals are crafted from a durable alloy material, giving them a realistic sheen and weight. You’ll appreciate how they resist fading and deformation, ensuring they’ll look great wear after wear. Their versatile design allows for easy attachment to jackets, coats, hats, and even scarves.
While perfect for costumes and reenactments, these medals aren’t official military decorations. Their smaller size might not meet everyone’s expectations, but it does allow for subtle styling. Whether you’re dressing up as a royal prince or completing a military uniform, these medals add an authentic touch to your ensemble.
National Defense Service Medal
You’ll find this medal to be a high-quality addition to your uniform or collection, perfect for honoring military service.
Pros
- Durable, eco-friendly materials
- Easy to attach and remove
- Versatile for uniforms and collections
Cons
- Limited customer reviews
- Specific to National Defense Service
- May not suit all military recognitions
This National Defense Service Medal offers a blend of quality and significance. Crafted from eco-friendly materials, it’s built to last without fading or deforming. You’ll appreciate how easily it attaches to your uniform, making it a breeze to wear for parades or special events.
The medal’s versatility is a standout feature. It’s not just for active service members – collectors will find it a valuable addition to their displays. If you’re looking for a meaningful gift for a military friend or family member, this could be an excellent choice.
While customer feedback is limited, the available reviews are overwhelmingly positive. The medal’s design is true to military specifications, ensuring authenticity. Remember, this specific medal honors National Defense Service, so consider the recipient’s service history when purchasing.
Army Good Conduct Medal
This premium-quality Army Good Conduct Medal is a must-have for veterans or collectors seeking an authentic military decoration.
Pros
- Officially approved by U.S. Institute of Heraldry
- Made and inspected by veterans in the USA
- Meets highest government standards
Cons
- Limited to Army personnel only
- May be pricey for casual collectors
- Requires proper display or storage
The Army Good Conduct Medal from Medals of America impresses with its attention to detail and authenticity. You’ll appreciate the official hallmark, confirming its approval by the U.S. Institute of Heraldry. This full-size medal adheres to strict military specifications, ensuring you’re getting a genuine piece of recognition.
Crafted with care by veterans in the USA, this medal showcases premium quality in every aspect. The bronze finish gleams with pride, while the vibrant ribbon adds a pop of color. You’ll find the standard 2-prong and clutch back, making it uniform-ready if needed.
Whether you’re replacing a lost medal or building a shadow box display, this Good Conduct Medal fits the bill perfectly. Its dimensions of 3.75 x 1.5 inches make it an ideal centerpiece for any military memorabilia collection. Remember to handle it with care to preserve its pristine condition for years to come.
Buying Guide
When shopping for military medals and ribbons, authenticity is key. Look for reputable dealers who specialize in genuine military awards. Check for certification and documentation to verify legitimacy.
Consider the condition of the medal or ribbon. Pristine items generally command higher prices, but well-preserved vintage pieces can be valuable too.
Material Matters
Pay attention to the materials used:
- Metals: Gold, silver, or bronze
- Ribbons: Silk, cotton, or synthetic fabrics
Higher quality materials often indicate a more prestigious award.
Mounting Options
Decide how you’ll display your medals:
- Individual medals
- Ribbon bars
- Full-size medal racks
Choose based on your display preferences and available space.
Historical Significance
Research the history behind each award. Medals from significant conflicts or rare awards tend to be more sought after.
Pricing Considerations
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Rarity | Higher |
| Condition | Better condition = higher price |
| Age | Older awards often cost more |
| Historical importance | Increases value |
Remember, collecting military medals is about honoring service and history. Always handle these items with respect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Military medals and ribbons can be complex to understand. These questions cover key aspects of military awards, from their rankings and significance to eligibility criteria and rarity.
What are the distinctions between the top military medals and their significance?
The top military medals are awarded for extraordinary acts of valor and heroism. The Medal of Honor is the highest and most prestigious, given for exceptional bravery at the risk of life. The Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, and Air Force Cross are the second-highest awards for extreme gallantry in combat.
Can you list the Army medals from the highest honor to the lowest?
The Army medal hierarchy starts with the Medal of Honor at the top. It’s followed by the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, and Distinguished Flying Cross. Next come the Soldier’s Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and Meritorious Service Medal. The list continues with various commendation and achievement medals.
How does one interpret a military medals chart or hierarchy?
A military medals chart shows the order of precedence for wearing awards. The highest-ranking medals are typically displayed at the top or left side of the chart. Lower-ranking awards follow in descending order. The chart also groups medals by type, such as valor awards, service medals, and campaign medals.
What is the eligibility criteria for receiving the Medal of Honor?
To be eligible for the Medal of Honor, you must be a member of the U.S. Armed Forces. The award is given for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty. The act must take place in actual combat against an enemy of the United States.
Which military awards are considered the most prestigious?
The most prestigious military awards are typically valor medals. The Medal of Honor stands at the pinnacle. Other highly esteemed awards include the service crosses (Army, Navy, and Air Force), the Silver Star, and the Distinguished Flying Cross. These medals recognize exceptional bravery and heroism in combat situations.
What sets apart the rarest military medals from more commonly awarded ones?
The rarest military medals are often those awarded for extreme acts of valor. Fewer than 3,600 recipients have received the Medal of Honor since its creation in 1861. Other rare medals include the service crosses and the Silver Star. These awards require extraordinary circumstances and rigorous verification processes.