NSCC/NLCC Awards Manual: Chapter Four

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CHAPTER FOUR

NSCC RIBBON AWARDS

SECTION I: Authority

The Board of Directors established the NSCC/NLCC ribbon award program in 1971. The program was extended to the officers' corps in 1977 and to instructors in 1994.

SECTION II: Policy

Ribbon awards were established as a means to recognize meritorious performance, to provide incentive for greater effort, and to enhance morale.
Commanding Officers must ensure that each award made or recommended to the proper approval authority meets established criteria. It is this diligence by each unit Commanding Officer or approval authority to ensure compliance to each award’s criteria that maintains the creditability of the NSCC/NLCC Awards Program.
If in doubt as to the level of the award to be recommended, it always best to lean towards the lower award. All levels in the approval chain should be prepared to withhold a positive endorsement if they feel the level being recommended is not appropriate.
Two ribbon awards cannot be earned for the same event, events, or same time period. Moreover, a junior ribbon earned cannot be cited as justification for a more senior ribbon.

SECTION III: Eligibility

Only those NSCC officers, midshipmen, instructors, and cadets who are currently enrolled in either a NSCC or NLCC unit, assigned to a regional staff or assigned to a training contingent are eligible to receive ribbon awards. Personnel in retired status who perform escort evolutions are eligible for awards associated with duty performed.
Midshipmen are considered to be officers for ribbon award purposes.
Instructors are eligible to receive officer ribbon awards.
Presentation of awards to individuals who have left the NSCC/NLCC programs is not authorized.

SECTION IV: Ribbon Awards and Criteria

Ribbons listed below that are designated NSCC or NLCC may only be awarded specifically to members of those respective programs. Ribbons that are not designated NSCC or NLCC may be awarded to members of both programs as indicated by the awarding organization

NSCC/NLCC Honor Ribbon - Awarded to an NSCC officer, midshipman, instructor, or NSCC/NLCC cadet who:
1. Is directly responsible for saving a human life at the risk of his or her own life.
  
  AUTHORITY: This ribbon will be issued by NHQ ONLY upon recommendation through the Chain of Command to the Executive Director.
NSCC Distinguished Service Ribbon - Awarded to an NSCC officer, midshipman, instructor, or NSCC cadet who distinguished him or herself:
1. By extraordinary heroism, but not to the degree justifying award of the Honor Ribbon, or
2. Through sustained and extraordinary service to the NSCC or NLCC in a position of responsibility. (Cadets will NOT normally qualify for this award by this requirement.)
3. Selected as national Officer, Instructor, or Cadet of the Year.
4. Those nominated for this ribbon must have made significant contributions to the Corps on a national level. For example, recognizing the contributions of those who have participated in numerous Advanced Trainings as COTC, were members of committees or working groups that improved the management and oversight of the Sea Cadet Corps, or the retirement of those with long service to the Sea Cadet Corps.
5. Service over an extended period of time (i.e. retirement or RD over 5 years)
  
  AUTHORITY: Issued by NHQ only upon recommendation through the Chain of Command to the Executive Director.
NSCC/NLCC Meritorious Recognition Ribbon - Awarded to an NSCC/NLCC officer, midshipman, instructor or NSCC/NLCC cadet who distinguishes him or herself :
1. By humanitarian action or exceptionally meritorious service to the NSCC or NLCC in a position of responsibility.
2. By selection as the “regional” officer or cadet(s) of the year.
3. By establishing and/or overseeing programs which made a significant contributions to the Sea Cadets or civic/volunteer groups (Red Cross, Wounded Warriors, Tunes for Troops, etc.).
4. CO at the end of a tour, with significantly strong justification.
5. RD at the end of a tour (less than 5 years)
  
  Note: May be awarded to the Honor Cadet of the Recruit Training Command or the Honor Cadet at a NLCC Orientation.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is NHQ only, upon recommendations via the Chain of Command to the Executive Director.
NSCC Commendation Ribbon - Awarded to an NSCC officer, midshipman, instructor or NSCC cadet who:
1. Distinguishes themselves through superior service, which results in achievement of specific project, complex tasks or period of sustained service, which clearly warrants recognition of the individual's achievement.
2. Award is designed to recognize cadet or unit leader who performs above that of a citation Ribbon but of lesser degree than a Meritorious Recognition Ribbon.
3. CO or RD at the end of a tour, where the meritorious award is not recommended.
4. Typical examples for this award would be to recognize the service of a “standard” Regional Director or Commanding Officer at their end of tour or Change of Command.
5. For a CO to qualify for this ribbon, they must have met the requirements to wear the Command Badge.
6. Additional examples are to acknowledge those selected as a Regional Officer/Cadet of the year” (where meritorious not authorized) and those who have made significant contributions to their region or unit.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority via the Chain of Command is the NHQ Representative.
NSCC Citation Ribbon –Awarded to an NSCC officer, midshipman, instructor or NSCC cadet who in the opinion of the unit Commanding Officer:
1. Distinguishes himself or herself by exceptionally commendable service or action and meets all of the below listed criteria.
2. Cadet:
  
  1) Excels in the normal path of advancement.
  2) Performs normal training requirements in an outstanding manner.
  3) Is smart and neat in appearance and wears the uniform with pride.
  4) Always acts in keeping with the highest traditions of the NSCC.
  
  Note: May be awarded to each Company Honor Cadet upon completion of NSCC RTC Training. (Approval authority is COTC of the RTC. The honor graduate of a large school such as an RTC (i.e. the BN honor graduate) receives the citation with a large gold star (5/16) affixed.)
3. Officer/Midshipman/Instructor:
  
  1) Pursues professional development through participation in formal and optional courses.
  2) Performs training and administrative responsibilities in an outstanding manner.
  3) Is smart and neat in appearance.
  4) Always acts in keeping with the highest traditions of the NSCC.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is via the Chain of Command to the NHQ Representative.
NSCC Escort Officer Ribbon - Awarded to an NSCC officer, instructor, and midshipman who meet the criteria below:
1. Have been issued training authorization letters designating participation as escorts for training scheduled by National Headquarters.
2. Have served in this capacity for training evolutions of not less than ten (10) days duration or 2 five (5) day evolutions for locally arranged trainings or for any Nationally Coordinated training regardless of duration.
3. Have successfully served as an escort officer as certified by the COTC of the training and meeting the above criteria.
  
  Special Note: This is to recognize the significant additional responsibilities associated with this training. Officers performing the duty of the Commanding Officer Training Contingent (COTC) for NSCC Recruit Training, NLCC Orientation or a Combined Command (several trainings being conducted simultaneously at a common location) are authorized to wear the large 5/16” gold star on the Escort Officer Ribbon.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is the COTC of the training.
NLUS Youth Medal and Ribbon - This award sponsored by the Navy League of the United States enables sponsoring councils to annually recognize excellence on the part of young people participating in NSCC and NLCC programs. It serves to emphasize the importance placed on education and training of American youth and recognizes the importance of NSCC and NLCC as NLUS youth programs in attaining established goals and objectives.

The NLUS Youth Medal and ribbon with a 5/16" inch silver star affixed to the center of the ribbon may be awarded annually to the unit NSCC Cadet of the Year, and/or, the NLUS Youth Ribbon with the gold boot affixed to the center of the ribbon may be awarded annually to the unit’s NLCC Cadet of the Year, as nominated by the sponsored unit's Commanding Officer.
1. The above award is based on the inspection year (calendar year) and shall be awarded at the end of the school year.
2. Notes:
  
  1) Units not sponsored by NLUS Councils should contact the closest NLUS Region or Council and request authorization for award of the NLUS Youth Medal to their deserving Cadet.
  2) This is to be at no cost to the authorizing council; the unit's designated sponsor, unit's parents group or unit assumes the cost.
  3) Contact the Navy League Ships Store at phone: (860) 274-1088 or www.navyleagueshipsstore.com or The Sea Cadet’s Ship Store at phone: (866) 522-3387 or www.seacadetshipsstore.com to order the medal, ribbon bar, 5/16" inch star, and accompanying certificate.
  4) NSCC Cadets earn the medal, ribbon, and certificate.
  5) NLCC Cadets earn ribbon, gold boot, and certificate ONLY.
  6) A cadet can only earn this award once while an NLCC Cadet and only once as an NSCC Cadet.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval Authority is NLUS Regional or Local Council.
Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), ROTC Award - Awarded to a graduating high school cadet who has demonstrated dependability, good character, military discipline, leadership, and a fundamental patriotic understanding of the importance of ROTC (NSCC) training.
1. The recipient of the award will be selected and nominated to the local DAR Chapter Regent, who will normally present the award.
2. The award consists of a bronze medal and accompanying ribbon bar.
  
  Approval authority is DAR as sole distributor of the award (Contact information www.dar.org)
Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) Good Citizenship Award - Awarded to an NSCC/NLCC cadet who has:
1. Attained the rate of Petty Officer Second Class or above (NSCC or NLCC) and is in good standing militarily and scholastically at the time of selection and presentation.
2. The cadet nominated must demonstrate a high degree of merit with respect to leadership qualities, military bearing, and excellence in the performance of duties; have the potential for greater leadership responsibilities; and be recommended by the unit Commanding Officer.
3. The recipient of the award will be selected and nominated to the local SAR Chapter President, who will normally make the award.
4. The award consists of a bronze medal and accompanying ribbon bar (NSCC only) and a certificate of recognition (NSCC/NLCC).
  
  Approval authority is SAR as sole distributor of the award (Contact information www.sar.org)
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Naval Sea Cadet Award - The recommended recipient of the award will be selected by the individual's Unit Commanding Officer and will be submitted to a local Veterans of Foreign War Post for their consideration and approval.
1. It is recommended that the award be presented annually at an appropriate ceremony such as inspections, open houses, September Sea Cadet Anniversary events, etc.
2. It is further recommended that a Post Commander or a representative of the VFW present the award.
3. The award is presented to NSCC Cadets in grades PO3 through CPO and NSCC Midshipmen and must meet the following criteria:
  
  1) Be in good standing academically.
  2) Progressing satisfactorily in the Sea Cadet program.
  3) Demonstrated outstanding achievement in (1) Community Service and (2) NSCC Naval Education.
  4) Demonstrated outstanding leadership in the Naval Sea Cadet Corps.
  5) Must be of high moral character.
  6) Displays outstanding military bearing and conduct both in and out of uniform.
  7) Actively promotes patriotism and Americanism.
  8) Demonstrates growth potential (assumes higher levels of responsibility)
  9) Must not have been previous recipient of the award.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is VFW as the sole distributor of this award (Contact information www.vfw.org).
NSCC/NLCC Community Service Ribbon - Will be awarded to those NSCC Cadets, Midshipmen, Instructors, and Officers that distinguish themselves by accumulating 30 hours or more of community service work. NLCC Cadets may earn the ribbon by accumulating 20 hours or more of community service work. The NLCC Cadet cannot transfer this ribbon.
1. This award is for true community work, i.e. serving meals for the homeless, community clean up, work at Veteran's Homes, charity work, etc.
2. Attendance at parades or public events is not the purpose of this ribbon.
3. Recording of service time will be on the Record of Awards (NSCADM 010).
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is the unit Commanding Officer.
NSCC International Exchange Program Ribbon - Awarded to NSCC Instructors, Midshipmen, Officers and Cadets who participate in the International Exchange Program, as coordinated under the auspices of the NSCC Director, International Exchange Program.
1. Cadets are selected in recognition for their scholarship, contributions to the NSCC program, and citizenship attributes which serve as the basis for IEP selection.
2. Senior escort officers are also eligible to wear the ribbon in recognition of their contribution to the NSCC program and selection of IEP duty.
  
  AUTHORITY: Awarded upon successful completion of IEP – by the IEP Director.
NSCC/NLCC Academic Achievement Ribbon - Awarded to NSCC/NLCC cadets who distinguish themselves in an academic environment by meeting the below listed criteria:
1. For cadets enrolled in an accredited school (including an accredited home school program):
  
  1) Is officially declared on his/her school's Honor Roll for a semester.
  2) Makes no grade below B.
  3) Makes the Honor Roll during the regular school year.
  4) Carries the required courses to be considered a full-time student at the enrolled school.
  5) Provide the Commanding Officers with a letter from the school verifying the Honor Roll status.
2. For cadets that are home schooled, but not enrolled in an accredited home school program:
  
  1) Carries the required courses to be considered a full-time student.
  2) Makes no grade below B.
  3) Provides the Commanding Officer with a letter from the person conducting the home schooling verifying their course enrollments and grades.
  4) Provides the Commanding Officer with a copy of a standardized test showing that the student has been tested during the school year and is placed in the top 25th percentile of tested students in all areas of achievement. Acceptable standardized test include:
  
  a) State designated standardized testing meeting the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act.
  b) The Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS)
  c) The California Achievement Test (CAT)
  d) The Stanford Achievement Test
3. Notes:
  
  1) NSCC Subsequent awards can be earned by students enrolled in school or in an accredited home school program for each semester an individual is on the school's Honor Roll using the appurtenance star system with a maximum of two (2) awards per school year.
  2) NSCC Subsequent awards can be earned by home schooled students not enrolled in an accredited home school program for each semester in a school year in respect of which a qualifying standardized test is submitted to the Commanding Officer and the student has met all other criteria set out above.
  3) NLCC subsequent awards may be earned using the star appurtenance system. The ribbon may be transferred when the League Cadet becomes a Sea Cadet; however the stars earned as a League Cadet are NOT TRANSFERABLE.
  4) Questions should be directed to NHQ.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is the Unit Commanding Officer
NSCC/NSCC Drug Reduction Service Ribbon - Awarded to an NSCC Officer, Midshipmen, Instructor, or NSCC/NLCC Cadet who displays outstanding skills in the area of leadership, perseverance, and courage in the community as a Drug-free role model and who has fulfilled the below listed criteria:
1. Successful completion of eight (8) prescribed substance abuse or Campaign Drug Free (CDF) lectures in accompaniment with a trained instructor.
2. Performed one (1) CDF presentation to either a school, civic, church, youth group, or other community-based audience.
3. Successfully provided awareness to the ideas of CDF to community, school, church, or other youth-related organizations via newspaper articles, radio or TV stories, displays, or participation in other youth activities.
4. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) distinguishing device may be awarded to an officer, midshipman, instructor, or NSCC cadet who distinguishes him/herself by giving four (4) or more CDF presentations to any of the aforementioned community organizations.
5. Notes:
  
  1) The Unit Commanding Officer or other appropriate authority must substantiate these requirements and forward via the Chain of Command to the NHQ Representative for approval.
  2) The ribbon design will reflect a blue and gold field, split vertically with the inboard side solid blue and the outboard side solid gold.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval Authority is via the Chain of Command to the NHQ Representative.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) Science Achievement Ribbon - ONR is the recognized leader in Science and Technology in the maritime service. In order to stimulate scientific curiosity, initiative and performance in scientific method, as well as recognize outstanding achievement by Cadets in scientific fields, the Office of Naval Research has initiated an awards program for Cadets who distinguish themselves in educationally sanctioned science competitions.
1. Documentation will be sent via the Chain of Command to the Executive Director, Naval Sea Cadet Corps, who will endorse and provide validation of award eligibility to the Office of Naval Research.
2. The ONR program recognizes three levels of scientific achievement:
  
  1) Navy League Cadets or Naval Sea Cadets, regardless of age or grade, who participate in educationally sanctioned science competitions, shall receive an appropriate Certificate of Participation, signed by the Office of Naval Research Program Manager for Education. Only one certificate per science competition shall be awarded.
  2) Navy League Cadets or Naval Sea Cadets in Grades 7-8, who receive science competition Placement Awards (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th) or Special Awards, including Naval Science Awards (U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps) or other science awards from federal agencies or private institutions/ organizations, shall receive an Office of Naval Research Science Achievement Certificate, signed by the Chief of Naval Research and Vice Chief of Naval Research (RADM, USN and BGEN, USMC respectively). Only one certificate per science project shall be awarded in any competition for which a Placement or Special Award is received.
  3) Naval Sea Cadets in Grades 9-12, who receive science competition Placement Awards (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th) or Special Awards, including Naval Science Awards (U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps) or other science awards from federal agencies or private institutions/organizations shall receive the Office of Naval Research Science Achievement Ribbon. Subsequent awards shall be recognized by addition of a 3/16" bronze star appurtenance. An Office of Naval Research Science Achievement Ribbon Certificate, signed by the Chief of Naval Research and Vice Chief of Naval Research shall also be presented. Only one ribbon (or appurtenance)/certificate per science project shall be awarded on any competition for which a Placement or Special Award is received.
3. In order to receive any level of award, Cadets must submit the appropriate form (NSCADM 039) via their unit Commanding Officer, and the Chain of Command to Headquarters, Naval Sea Cadet Corps for review and forwarding to Office of Naval Research.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is ONR.
NSCC/NLCC Recruiting Incentive Ribbon - Awarded to any Officer, Midshipmen, Instructor and NSCC/NLCC Cadet who meets the below listed criteria:
1. Cadet: Recruits officers, midshipman, instructors, and NSCC/NLCC cadets into any NSCC/NLCC unit; accumulation of Three (3) recruiting points is required to qualify for the ribbon as follows:
  
  1) One (1) point for each NSCC/NLCC cadet enrolled.
  2) Three (3) points for each adult enrolled.
2. Officer/Midshipman/Instructor – Recruits officers, midshipman, instructors, and NSCC/NLCC cadets into any NSCC/NLCC unit; accumulation of Six (6) recruitment points is required to qualify for the ribbon as follows.
  
  1) 1 point for each NSCC/NLCC cadet enrolled
  2) 2 points for each adult enrolled
3. Notes:
  
  1) A further accumulation of 6 recruitment points is necessary to earn each additional Recruiting Incentive Appurtenance/awards. See CHAPTER 4, SECTION X Note (4) for subsequent appurtenances / awards.
  2) Recruited members must remain a member of the program for at least 3 months to get credit for the recruitment/enrollment.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is the Unit Commanding Officer.
NSCC/NLCC Unit Commendation Ribbon - Awarded to an Officer, Midshipmen, Instructor, and/or NSCC/NLCC Cadet who, as a group of fifteen (15) or more; or 80% of unit enrollees, receive recognition for:
1. Acts which reflect conspicuous honor on the NSCC or NLCC.
2. Participation in community affairs.
3. Notes:
  
  1) A unit must participate in two or more community affairs events to be eligible. Commanding Officers should submit a written request upon completion of the unit's participation in two or more such events with a description of the events via the Chain of Command to the HQ Representative. A roster listing all of the unit personnel participating in the events should be made part of the request.
  2) Color Guards are not eligible for this award.
  3) Only those unit members participating in the two events will receive the ribbon award.
  
  AUTHORITY: The NHQ Representative, via the chain of command
NSCC/NLCC Physical Fitness Ribbon - Awarded to NSCC/NLCC Officers, Midshipmen, Instructors and NSCC/NLCC Cadets who distinguish themselves by excelling in maintaining physical fitness standards. This award is granted to any officer, midshipman, instructor or cadet who meets the required qualifying standards of the Presidential Physical Fitness Award as outlined in the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports Package available to the public each year.
1. Information available on web site www.presidentschallenge.org. There are five test items (with options for the basic items), which the officer, midshipman, instructor or cadet must pass to qualify for the ribbon. To qualify, the candidate must meet the standards specified below:
2. The current test elements from the Presidential Physical Fitness Award must be used. The specific NSCC/NLCC Officer, Midshipman, Instructors and Cadets scoring and achievement parameters are found in the Advancement and Training Manual at Appendix 3.
3. A certified instructor from the list below must validate the test (observing another certified instructor in giving the test can certify an instructor):
  
  1) Physical Education Teacher at cadet's local school.
  2) Regional Director or his designated staff.
  3) Active duty staff at Department of Defense facilities.
  4) Designated active duty or NSCC PRT Coordinators at NSCC training sites.
4. The President's Challenge Physical Fitness Scorecard for the National Level must be used and be presented to the officers, midshipman, instructor or cadet's Commanding Officer to validate them passing the required standards.
5. Officers, midshipmen, and instructors are eligible for this award as of 2006.
6. Using the star appurtenance system, a maximum of two (one during each six (6) month period) awards per year is allowed.
7. If an officer, midshipman, instructor or cadet qualifies at the Presidential Level, they will wear the “E" appurtenance on the Physical Fitness Ribbon. Only one (1) “E” can be affixed to the ribbon. Subsequent awards are recognized with the star appurtenance system totaling all awards at all levels.
8. Ribbon is worn with the color BLUE inboard.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is the Unit Commanding Officer.
NSCC Staff Cadet Ribbon - Awarded only to NSCC cadets who successfully serve as "staff" cadets for NSCC/NLCC training evolutions scheduled by National Headquarters, and who meet the following criteria:
1. Have been issued a NSCC Training Authorization (NSCTNG 005) which designates or authorizes participation as a "staff" cadet.
2. Served as "staff" cadet in support of a complete NSCC/NLCC training evolution authorized by National Headquarters, for which staff cadets have been authorized.
3. Have successfully served as "staff" cadet as certified by a COTC entry on Administrative Remarks (NSCADM 008) in the cadet's service record.
4. Staff cadets serving at “locally arranged NLCC Orientation and NSCC Recruit Trainings” authorized by NHQ, can get credit for serving as a staff cadet. In NO case should it exceed a ratio of 1 staff cadet to 10 trainees.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is the COTC of the training.
NSCC/NLCC Color Guard Ribbon - Awarded to NSCC/NLCC cadets who, as a designated member of a color guard, exhibition drill team, or ceremonial rifle squad, meet the following criteria:
1. Has performed as a member of the team for a minimum of six (6) months.
2. Has performed in a minimum of five (5) team evolutions in a public event.
3. Unit drills, parades, and raising and lowering the colors aboard a base, NOSC or ship do not count. Each event must be recorded on the Record of Awards (NSCADM 010)
4. Is smart and neat in appearance, and wears the uniform with pride.
5. Always acts in the highest traditions of the NSCC/NLCC.
6. Subsequent awards will be a bronze star on the ribbon.
7. Ceremonial events aboard a ship, base, or NOSC (retirement ceremonies, changes of commands, inspections, formal dinners and similar events) are encouraged and do count as civic events. But the daily raising of colors at 0800 or retiring the colors at sunset, for example, do not count.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is the Unit Commanding Officer.
  
  NOTE: Second and subsequent awards of all the above ribbons awards are authorized and will be indicated by the wearing of bronze and/or silver stars as specified in CHAPTER 4, SECTION X Note 4.
NSCC/NLCC Prior Service Ribbon - Awarded to an NSCC Officer, Midshipmen, Instructor, or cadet who meets the following criteria:
1. NSCC Cadet:
  
  1) Served as a Navy League Cadet for a period of twelve (12) months prior to enrollment in NSCC (there shall be no time lapse between NLCC and NSCC enrollments).
  2) Attained the rate of PO3, or higher, while serving as a NLCC cadet.
2. Officer/Midshipman/Instructor:
  
  1) Served as a Sea Cadet for a period of twelve (12) months prior to appointment as an officer, instructor, or midshipman (continuous service is not required).
  2) Attained the rate of E-3, or higher, while serving as a NSCC cadet.
3. Notes:
  
  1) Qualifying officers, midshipmen, instructors, and cadets may wear the bronze boot appurtenances if earned.
  2) Qualifying officers, instructors, and midshipmen may wear the ribbon with 5/16" (large) silver star, if earned.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is the Unit Commanding Officer.
NSCC/NLCC Marksman Ribbon - Awarded to an officer, midshipman, instructor, or NSCC/NLCC cadet who attain a qualifying score with pistol and/or rifle:
1. Since there are many different forms of qualifying on the ranges (i.e., air rifle, laser, small bore, etc.), scoring, manner of firing, distances, etc. will be in accordance with applicable standards for the range being used. Individuals will qualify for marksman sharpshooter, or expert, based on the qualifying range requirements for these levels of experience.
2. There is no distinction in this award as to qualifying with pistol or rifle, and multiple awards are not given for qualifying with one and then the other.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval Authority is the Unit Commanding Officer.
International Naval Review (INR)/OpSail 2000 Ribbon - Awarded to an officer, instructor, or cadet who participated in the INR in New York City, NY, during the period 29 June - 7 July 1986 or during OpSail 2000. Cadets authorized to wear the INR Ribbon may wear the anchor appurtenance. (See SECTION XI Paragraphs 3) Officers, instructors, and midshipmen authorized to wear the INR Ribbon are also authorized to wear the NSCC Escort Officer Ribbon.
1. This ribbon is also authorized for wear by participation in other OPSAIL events upon approval via the Chain of Command to NHQ.
  
  Note: Ribbon worn with blue on the inboard side and red on the outboard side.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is via the chain of command to NHQ.
NSCC 25th /50th Anniversary Ribbon - A silver ribbon is authorized for wear by all NSCC/NLCC personnel (officers, instructors, midshipmen, and cadets)
1. Enrolled in NSCC as of 10 September 1987 (for the 25th)
2. Enrolled in NSCC as of 10 September 2012 (for the 50th)
3. The ribbon will take precedence immediately before the NSCC/NLCC Five-Year Ribbon and immediately after the International Naval Review Ribbon.
  
  Note: 5/16" inch Silver Star Appurtenance: Authorized for wear on the 25th Anniversary Ribbon for only those personnel who attended the 25th anniversary ceremonies in Washington, DC, on 15 August 1987. A 5/16 inch Gold Star appurtenance will be authorized for personnel who attend the 50th anniversary ceremonies in Washington, DC.
  
  AUTHORITY: Unit CO, based on confirmed status of awardees.
25th Year Commissioned Ribbon - A silver ribbon with blue edges is authorized for wear by all NSCC/NLCC personnel enrolled in a unit qualifying for a 25-year commissioning after one full year of enrollment in the unit. This is only awarded to units who have 25 years of continuous operation.
1. Units will affix the 5/16 inch (large) silver star to the ribbon for each additional 25 years of continuous operation in the flowing manner:
  
  1) 25 years (no star)
  2) 50 years (one star)
  
  NOTE: Units can order Flag “pinnate” for the 25th /50th anniversaries of unit commissioning from the Ship’s Store.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is via the Chain of Command to the Executive Director.
USCG Bicentennial Unit Commendation Ribbon - Awarded only to an officer, midshipman, instructor, and NSCC/NLCC cadet who served at least one day with the Coast Guard during the period 6 June 1989 through 4 August 1990.

AUTHORITY: Unit Commanding Officer (with supporting documentation)
NSCC/NLCC Year Ribbons - Awarded to an officer, midshipman, instructor, and NSCC/NLCC cadets to reflect the number of years of service in NSCC/NLCC. There are five (5) ribbon awards which are awarded to officers, midshipmen, instructors, and cadets as follows:
1. Cadet:
  
  1) 1st Year Ribbon - After 90 days, but less than one year
  2) 2nd Year Ribbon - After one year, but less than two years
  3) 3rd Year Ribbon - After two years, but less than three years
  4) 4th Year Ribbon - After three years, but less than four years
  5) 5th Year Ribbon - After four years, but less than five years
2. Officer/Midshipman/Instructor:
  
  1) 1st Year Ribbon - Upon completion of one year of service
  2) 2nd Year Ribbon - Upon completion of two years of service
  3) 3rd Year Ribbon - Upon completion of three years of service
  4) 4th Year Ribbon - Upon completion of four years of service
  5) 5th Year Ribbon - Upon completion of five years of service
3. Notes:
  
  1) Officers, Midshipmen, and Instructors may wear all the current earned year ribbons, or just the most current, or none at all.
  2) NSCC/NLCC Cadets may wear all earned year ribbons earned as a NSCC or NLCC cadet (start over when going from NLCC cadet to NSCC cadet).
  3) Officers, instructors, and midshipmen are not authorized to wear year ribbon awards earned while serving as a cadet.
  4) Midshipmen commence earning year ribbon awards upon completion of one year of service as a midshipman. Years of service for award purposes continue on from midshipman to officer without a break. Continuous years of service do not start over when appointed to officer status from midshipman.
  5) For service awards in excess of five years on the part of officers, instructors or cadets, see CHAPTER 4, SECTION XI, and Note (3) thereto.
  6) After 25 years, per CHAPTER 4, SECTION XI and Note (5), there are no additional awards. Approval authority is the Unit Commanding Officer.
  
  AUTHORITY: Approval authority is the Unit Commanding Officer.

SECTION V: Recommendation Procedures

Anyone can recommend NSCC/NLCC personnel for an award covered in this manual, in letter form, stating the person’s compliance to the awards requirements or why an award should be presented.
All recommendations shall include supporting information as necessary to show justification for the award. Full names and NSCC/NLCC identification numbers of personnel for whom the award is proposed will be included.
Recommendations for the NSCC/NLCC Honor Ribbon, NSCC Distinguished Service Ribbon, NSCC Meritorious Recognition Ribbon, DEA Device and 25 Year Commissioning Ribbon will be submitted in letter format via the chain of command to the Executive Director, normally under the signature of the unit commanding officer. NSCC Commendation Ribbon and below, unless noted otherwise, shall be submitted to the NHQ Representative via the chain of command. Recommendations will be accompanied by a citation on the individual's behalf. (Refer to Appendix for sample citations/recommendations.) 4. The NSCC/NLCC Unit Commendation Ribbon is a group award; therefore, names and NSCC/NLCC identification numbers of all officers and cadets who participated in the activity for which the award is recommended must be listed in the letter of recommendation.

SECTION VI: Approval of Awards

Only the Executive Director shall approve recommendations for the award of the NSCC/NLCC Honor Ribbon, NSCC Distinguished Service Ribbon, NSCC Meritorious Recognition Ribbon, ONR Scientific Achievement Award, DEA Device, 25th Year Commissioned Ribbon and the NLCC Distinguished Service Ribbon.. Please refer to the ribbon award instructions above or Appendix II for approval.

SECTION VII: Subsequent Awards

Second and subsequent awards of certain ribbons will be indicated by affixing certain appurtenances. [Refer to CHAPTER 4, SECTION XI Note (5).]

SECTION VIII: Wearing of Medals and Ribbon Awards

Ribbons will be worn on dress uniforms only in the following manner:
1. Centered above the left pocket with the bottom edge 1/4 inch above the pocket.
2. In horizontal rows of not more than three (3) ribbons.
3. If not in multiples of three, the upper row will contain the lesser number.
4. The center of the top row will be over the center of the first full ribbon row.
5. There will be no space between rows.
Officers, instructors, and midshipmen may wear all ribbon award and appurtenances earned as a NSCC cadet with the exception of year ribbons. [See CHAPTER 4, SECTION IV, Paragraph 27b, Notes (1), (3) and (4).]
NSCC cadets may wear ALL ribbons awarded as a NLCC cadet except for year ribbons.
Medals will be worn with the dress uniform WHEN PRESCRIBED FOR FORMAL OCCASIONS:
1. Medals will be worn over the left pocket, centered and clasped 1/4 inch above the upper pocket seam.
2. Name tags are not authorized for formal occasions when dress uniforms (with medals) are prescribed.
3. If authorized, and earned, up to two rows of “non-medal” ribbons, up to the highest six (6), can be worn on the right side, commensurate with DOD, DHS regulations, centered and clasped directly even with the bottom row of metal clasps on the left hand side.

SECTION IX: Precedence

NSCC/NLCC ribbon awards will be worn in the following order of precedence from the top to bottom and from inboard to outboard:

NSCC Officers/Cadets	NLCC Cadets
Chairman's Meda l Ribbon	NSCC/NLCC Honor Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC Honor Ribbon	NLCC Distinguished Service Ribbon
NSCC Distinguished Service Ribbon	NLUS Youth Ribbon
NLCC Distinguished Service Ribbon	NLCC Merit Ribbon
NSCC Meritorious Recognition Ribbon	DAR Award Ribbon
NSCC Commendation Ribbon	SAR Good Citizenship Award
NSCC Citation Ribbon	VFW Ribbon
NSCC Escort Officer Ribbon	NSCC/NLCC Community Service Ribbon
NLUS Youth Award Ribbon	NSCC/NLCC Academic Achievement Ribbon
DAR Award Ribbon	NSCC/NLCC Drug Reduction Service Ribbon
SAR Good Citizenship Ribbon	ONR Science Achievement Ribbon
Veterans of Foreign Wars VFW Ribbon	NSCC/NLCC Recruiting Incentive Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC Community Service Ribbon	NSCC/NLCC Unit Commendation Ribbon
NSCC IEP Ribbon	NSCC/NLCC Physical Fitness Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC Academic Achievement Ribbon	NSCC/NLCC Color Guard Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC Drug Reduction Service Ribbon	NSCC/NLCC Marksman Ribbon
ONR Science Achievement Ribbon	INR / OpSail 2000 Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC Recruiting Incentive Ribbon	NSCC 25th Anniversary Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC Unit Commendation Ribbon	25th Year Commissioned Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC Physical Fitness Ribbon	NSCC/NLCC 4th Year Ribbon
NSCC Staff Cadet Ribbon	NSCC/NLCC 3rd Year Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC Color Guard Ribbon	NSCC/NLCC 2nd Year Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC Prior Service Ribbon	NSCC/NLCC 1st Year Ribbon
NLCC Merit Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC Marksman Ribbon
INR / OpSail 2000 Ribbon
NSCC 25th Anniversary Ribbon
25th Year Commissioned Ribbon
USCG Bicentennial Unit Commendation Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC 5th Year Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC 4th Year Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC 3rd Year Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC 2nd Year Ribbon
NSCC/NLCC 1st Year Ribbon

Note: U.S. Coast Guard personnel (active duty, reserve, or retired) who are active NSCC leaders will wear the U.S. Coast Guard Bicentennial Unit Commendation Ribbon in accordance with current USCG instructions.

SECTION X: Appurtenances

Appurtenance awards were established to recognize individual accomplishments. Unit Commanding Officers will ensure that appurtenances recommended/awarded meet established criteria, and that the appurtenance award program is not abused.
Only those NSCC/NLCC cadets, officers, instructors, and midshipmen, who are currently enrolled in a NSCC/NLCC unit, or as a regional staff member, may receive an appurtenance award.
Appurtenances will be worn on the year ribbon for the year in which the award was earned except as noted in description of appurtenance awards.
Appurtenances will be placed on ribbon awards as follows: a. When one is worn, it will be centered on the ribbon. b. When two or more are worn, they will be spaced so that the distance between each will be equal to the distance from end to end.
NHQ will designate what category appurtenance will be awarded for new training as the trainings are established. Only one appurtenance can be earned per training evolution. An appurtenance is authorized for the completion of a nationally authorized training or a local training of 10 or more days (See Note 1).

SECTION XI: Appurtenance Awards and Criteria

Maple Leaf: Awarded to officers, midshipman, instructors and cadets for satisfactory completion of the US/Canadian Sea Cadet Exchange Program. A silver maple leaf is awarded for participation on the East Coast and a gold maple leaf is awarded for participation on the West Coast. The maple leaf is affixed to the NSCC Citation Ribbon.
Aircraft: Awarded to cadets for satisfactory completion of aviation-oriented advanced training programs (basic, advanced, FAA Ground, Air Traffic Control, etc.) authorized by National Headquarters. See Note (1).
Anchor: Awarded to cadets for satisfactory completion of advanced training aboard ship, amphibious operations, port operations, Maritime Ops, Operational Specialist, Mine Warfare Ops, Special Boats, sailing, seamanship or other surface warfare-type training, authorized by National Headquarters. See Note (1).
USCG Shield: Awarded to cadets for satisfactory completion of basic and/or advanced training aboard a Coast Guard ship, shore activity or maritime operations, authorized by National Headquarters. See Note (1).
Propeller: Awarded to an officer, midshipman, instructor, and NSCC/NLCC cadet for satisfactory completion of the Coast Guard Safe Boating Program, and Maritime Engineering School or a comparable program approved by National Headquarters. NLCC cadets who transfer to NSCC may wear this appurtenance on the NSCC/NLCC Prior Service Ribbon.
Torch: Awarded to an NSCC/NLCC cadet for satisfactory completion of a leadership-training program approved by National Headquarters. Awarded to an officer, midshipman or instructor for completion of all of the NSCC officer courses, OPD 101-301, qualifies the member for this award.
Submarine: Awarded to cadets for satisfactory completion of a submarine seminar/orientation program approved by National Headquarters.
Hammer: Awarded to cadets for satisfactory completion of a Seabee training program approved by National Headquarters.
Trident: Awarded to cadets for satisfactory completion of a diving, scuba, underwater research, etc., training program approved by National Headquarters. Note: No longer awarded for SEAL Training since 2001.
Compass Rose: Awarded to cadets who attend a career or professional advanced training to include: cook, photo, fire fighting, field training, vehicle maintenance, Life Guard, Electronics School, FX Scotland, approved by National Headquarters. See Note (1).
Lyre: Awarded to cadets for satisfactory completion of advanced training at a DoD School of Music or Band.
Caduceus: Awarded to cadets for satisfactory completion of advanced hospital corpsman or medical training at a Navy or other military or civilian medical facility. See Note (1).
MAA: Awarded to Cadets for satisfactory completion of Homeland Security, JAG, MAA, police science, search and rescue, etc. advanced training program approved by National Headquarters. See Note (1).
"R": Awarded to cadets for satisfactory completion of advanced training in a Navy or Coast Guard recruiting office or station. See Note (1).
"E": Awarded as follows: a. Awarded to all personnel attached to a NSCC unit achieving a 3.50 grade or an NLCC unit obtaining a 3.70 grade on the annual inspection. Individuals must have been attached to the unit during the year of the inspection for which the award was earned, worn on the year ribbon. b. To officers, midshipmen, instructors, and NSCC/NLCC cadets who qualify as expert with pistol and/or rifle. Worn on the NSCC Marksman Ribbon. See Note (2).
"S": Awarded to an officer, midshipman, instructor, and NSCC/NLCC cadet who qualify as sharpshooter with pistol and/or rifle. Worn on the NSCC Marksman Ribbon. See Note (2).
Large (5/16 inch) Gold Star: Awarded as follows:
1. Awarded to an officer, midshipman, instructor, and cadet enrolled in a unit awarded the John J. Bergen Trophy for NSCC, or the Morgan L. Fitch Trophy for NLCC. Only those enrolled in the unit at the time of the required annual inspection period for which the trophy was awarded are eligible. The Large Gold Star is worn on the year ribbon for the training year covered by the inspection, or will be moved to the next highest year ribbon (NSCC cadets) for subsequent awards of the trophy. NLCC cadets authorized a Large Gold Star earned for winning the Morgan Fitch Award may transfer this star to their first-year NSCC ribbon. Only one ribbon star may be transferred
2. Upon successful completion of Honor Guard Training, the star will be worn on Color Guard Ribbon.
Large (5/16) Silver Star : Awarded as follows:
1. Affixed to NSCC 25th Anniversary Ribbon for those NSCC/NLCC officers, midshipmen, and cadets who attended the ceremonies in Washington, D.C. on 15 August 1987.
2. Affixed to the NSCC/NLCC Fifth Year Ribbon for adult leaders who have twenty-five years of consecutive active service with the NSCC/NLCC.
3. Affixed to NLCC Merit Ribbon indicating designation as the Honor Cadet at a NLCC orientation program approved by National Headquarters.
4. Affixed to NSCC/NLCC Prior Service Ribbon for officers/midshipmen who were both former NLCC and NSCC cadets.
5. For those NSCC cadets who earned the NLUS Youth Award as a NLCC cadet and also earns it as a NSCC cadet. The star will be affixed to the center of the suspension ribbon on NLUS Youth Medal and affixed to the outboard side with a gold boot on the inboard side of the NLUS Youth Ribbon.
Small (3/16 inch) Silver Star: Denotes five (5) additional awards and multiples thereof. See Note (3).
Small (3/16) Bronze Star: Awarded as follows: a. Denotes 6th year enrollment as a NSCC officer, midshipman, instructor or cadet. See Note (3). b. Denotes subsequent awards of certain ribbons in conjunction with silver stars. See Note (3).
DEA Device: Affixed to the center of the Drug Reduction Service Ribbon to signify giving four or more CDF presentations.
Section Notes:

(1) All nationally arranged and advertised training, is approved for credit for advancement and wear of the appropriate appurtenance.
(2) For locally arranged trainings, a minimum of five (5) consecutive days is required.
(3) "S" and "E" may both be worn on the Marksman Ribbon, providing that one was earned with pistol and the other with rifle. Also, two "S" or two "E" may be worn if earned with different weapons.
(4) The following appurtenances affixed to the 5th Year Ribbon indicate additional years of enrollment as NSCC officer/midshipman/instructor:

6th Year – one bronze star
7th Year – two bronze stars
8th Year – three bronze stars
9th Year – four bronze stars
10th Year – one small (3/16”) silver star
11th Year – one small silver star and one bronze star
12th Year – one small silver star and two bronze stars
13th Year – one small silver star and three bronze stars
14th Year – one small silver star and four bronze stars
15th Year – two small silver stars
16th Year – two small silver stars and one bronze star
17th Year – two small silver stars and two bronze stars
18th Year – two small silver stars and three bronze stars
19th Year – two small silver stars and four bronze stars
20th Year – three small silver stars
21st Year – three small silver stars and one bronze star
22nd Year – three small silver stars and two bronze stars
23rd Year – three small silver stars and three bronze stars
24th Year – three small silver stars and four bronze stars
25th Year – one large (5/16”) silver star

(5) Second and subsequent awards of ribbons are to be indicated by affixing the following appurtenances:

2nd Award – one bronze star
3rd Award – two bronze stars
4th Award – three bronze stars
5th Award – four bronze stars
6th Award – one small silver star replaces all previous bronze stars
7th Award – one small silver star and one bronze star, etc.