National defence ribbon – The National Defense Ribbon is a prestigious award bestowed upon members of the United States Armed Forces in recognition of their honorable service during periods of national emergency or conflict. Established in 1954, the ribbon has evolved over time to reflect the changing nature of military service and the sacrifices made by those who defend the nation.
This ribbon holds immense significance for service members, symbolizing their dedication, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to protecting the United States and its allies. The criteria for receiving the National Defense Ribbon are stringent, ensuring that only those who have served honorably during eligible periods are recognized.
Historical Origins of the National Defense Ribbon
The National Defense Ribbon was established in 1954 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to recognize members of the United States Armed Forces who served on active duty during periods of national emergency or conflict.
Establishment and Evolution
The ribbon was initially awarded for service during the Korean War, and its criteria have since been expanded to include service during the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Global War on Terrorism.
Criteria for Receiving the Ribbon
To be eligible for the National Defense Ribbon, service members must have served on active duty for at least 30 consecutive days during a period of national emergency or conflict. The ribbon is also awarded posthumously to the families of service members who died while on active duty during these periods.
Notable Recipients
Notable recipients of the National Defense Ribbon include:
- President Ronald Reagan
- General Colin Powell
- Admiral Michelle Howard
Design and Symbolism of the Ribbon
The National Defense Ribbon is a military award of the United States Armed Forces. It was established by Executive Order 10448 on December 18, 1953, and is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who have served on active duty during a period of national emergency or war.The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following colors:
Red
Represents the blood shed by American service members in defense of the nation.
White
Represents the purity of the American people’s cause.
Blue
Represents the vigilance and determination of the American people.The ribbon is also adorned with a gold star, which represents the nation’s gratitude for the service of its members.The National Defense Ribbon is a symbol of military service and is worn on the left breast of the uniform.
It is a reminder of the sacrifices that have been made by American service members in defense of the nation.
Symbolism of the Colors
The colors of the National Defense Ribbon are symbolic of the following:
Red
The red stripes represent the blood shed by American service members in defense of the nation.
White
The white stripes represent the purity of the American people’s cause.
Blue
The blue stripes represent the vigilance and determination of the American people.
Significance of the Ribbon
The National Defense Ribbon is a significant symbol of military service. It is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who have served on active duty during a period of national emergency or war. The ribbon is a reminder of the sacrifices that have been made by American service members in defense of the nation.
Award Criteria and Eligibility
The National Defense Ribbon is awarded to service members who have served on active duty during a period of war or national emergency. The specific criteria for awarding the ribbon are as follows:
Service members must have served on active duty for at least 30 consecutive days during a period of war or national emergency.
The period of service must have been terminated under honorable conditions.
Service members who are awarded the National Defense Ribbon are also eligible to wear the National Defense Service Medal.
Eligibility Requirements
The following categories of service members are eligible for the National Defense Ribbon:
- Members of the Armed Forces of the United States
- Members of the Reserve components of the Armed Forces of the United States
- Members of the National Guard
- Members of the Coast Guard
- Members of the Public Health Service
- Members of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Qualifying Service Periods
The following service periods qualify for the National Defense Ribbon:
- World War II (September 8, 1939 – December 31, 1946)
- Korean War (June 25, 1950 – January 31, 1955)
- Vietnam War (February 28, 1961 – May 7, 1975)
- Persian Gulf War (August 2, 1990 – November 30, 1995)
- War on Terrorism (September 11, 2001 – present)
Flowchart for Determining Eligibility
The following flowchart illustrates the process for determining eligibility for the National Defense Ribbon:
- Start
- Was the service member on active duty during a period of war or national emergency?
- Yes
- Did the service member serve for at least 30 consecutive days?
- Yes
- Was the service member’s period of service terminated under honorable conditions?
- Yes
- The service member is eligible for the National Defense Ribbon
- No
- End
Glossary of Terms, National defence ribbon
- Active duty: Full-time military service.
- Honorable conditions: Service that is not terminated due to misconduct or other negative factors.
- National emergency: A period of time declared by the President of the United States in which the country is facing a serious threat to its national security.
- Period of war: A period of time declared by the Congress of the United States in which the country is engaged in armed conflict with another nation.
- Reserve components: The part-time military forces of the United States.
Significance of the National Defense Ribbon
The National Defense Ribbon is a significant award that recognizes the service and sacrifice of members of the Armed Forces of the United States who have served during periods of war or national emergency. The ribbon is a symbol of the dedication and patriotism of these service members, and it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices that they have made to protect the United States.
Procedures for Awarding the Ribbon
The process of awarding the National Defense Ribbon is a standardized procedure to ensure the consistent and equitable distribution of the ribbon to eligible personnel.
To initiate the award process, individuals must submit a request through their commanding officer or personnel office. The request should include documentation verifying the individual’s eligibility, such as orders or deployment records.
The National Defence Ribbon is a military award given to members of the Canadian Forces who have served in a designated operational theatre. It is the second-highest award in the Canadian military, after the Victoria Cross. The ribbon was created in 1991 and has been awarded to over 100,000 members of the Canadian Forces.
Can utilities be shut off right now in Illinois 2023 ? The answer is yes, but there are some exceptions. If you are a low-income household, you may be eligible for a payment plan or other assistance. The National Defence Ribbon is a prestigious award that recognizes the contributions of Canadian Forces members to the defence of Canada.
Role of Commanding Officers and Personnel Offices
Commanding officers and personnel offices play crucial roles in the award process. Commanding officers are responsible for reviewing and approving award requests, ensuring that the individual meets the eligibility criteria and has provided the necessary documentation.
Personnel offices are responsible for maintaining records of awards and ensuring that individuals receive their ribbons promptly. They also provide guidance and support to commanding officers and individuals throughout the award process.
Exceptions and Special Considerations
In certain cases, exceptions or special considerations may be made in the award process. For example, individuals who were honorably discharged from the military but did not receive the ribbon may be eligible for a retroactive award upon request.
Additionally, individuals who served in a designated combat zone or contingency operation may be eligible for an additional award device to be worn on the ribbon.
Display and Wearing of the Ribbon

The National Defense Ribbon is worn on the left breast of military uniforms, above all other ribbons and awards except the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, and Bronze Star Medal.
The ribbon is worn in the following order of precedence:
- Medal of Honor
- Distinguished Service Cross
- Distinguished Service Medal
- Silver Star
- Legion of Merit
- Distinguished Flying Cross
- Bronze Star Medal
- National Defense Ribbon
- Other ribbons and awards
Comparison to Other Military Ribbons

The National Defense Ribbon shares similarities with other military service ribbons in recognizing service members for their contributions during specific periods or events. However, it differs in criteria, eligibility, and recognition compared to the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, the Selective Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.
Armed Forces Reserve Medal
The Armed Forces Reserve Medal recognizes members of the Ready Reserve who have completed 10 years of honorable service. Unlike the National Defense Ribbon, which is awarded to all service members during periods of national emergency, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal is specific to those serving in the Reserve components.
Selective Service Medal
The Selective Service Medal is awarded to individuals who were drafted into military service during peacetime through the Selective Service System. It differs from the National Defense Ribbon, which is awarded for service during periods of national emergency, and from the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, which recognizes service in the Reserve components.
National Defense Service Medal
The National Defense Service Medal is awarded to service members who served on active duty during specific periods of national emergency, including the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Global War on Terrorism. It shares similarities with the National Defense Ribbon in recognizing service during periods of national emergency, but differs in the specific criteria and eligibility requirements.
| Ribbon | Criteria | Eligibility | Recognition |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Defense Ribbon | Service during periods of national emergency | All service members | Recognizes service during wartime and periods of national emergency |
| Armed Forces Reserve Medal | 10 years of honorable service in the Ready Reserve | Members of the Ready Reserve | Recognizes service in the Reserve components |
| Selective Service Medal | Drafted into military service during peacetime | Individuals drafted through the Selective Service System | Recognizes service through the draft |
| National Defense Service Medal | Active duty service during specific periods of national emergency | Service members on active duty during specified periods | Recognizes service during specific conflicts and operations |
– Describe the history and symbolism behind the National Defense Ribbon.
Established in 1954, the National Defense Ribbon acknowledges service members who have contributed to national defense during periods of significant military operations or tensions. It symbolizes their dedication to protecting the United States and its interests.
The ribbon’s design features a blue field representing the sky, a red field representing the land, and a white field representing the sea. These elements symbolize the three domains of national defense: air, land, and sea.
The National Defense Ribbon is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who meet the following criteria:
- Service during a period of national emergency declared by the President or Congress
- Service during a period of significant military operations or tensions
Impact on Military Careers
The National Defense Ribbon is a significant achievement that can have a positive impact on military careers. It is a symbol of service and dedication, and it can be a valuable asset in terms of promotions, assignments, and performance evaluations.
Promotions and AssignmentsThe National Defense Ribbon can contribute to promotions by demonstrating a service member’s commitment to the military and their willingness to serve during times of conflict. It can also be a factor in determining assignments, as it shows that a service member is qualified and experienced in serving in a variety of roles.Performance Evaluations
The National Defense Ribbon is often recognized in performance evaluations, as it is a reflection of a service member’s dedication and service. It can be a factor in determining awards, promotions, and other career opportunities.
Career Progression
The National Defense Ribbon can have a significant impact on career progression. It is a symbol of experience and dedication, and it can open doors to new opportunities and responsibilities. It can also help service members to advance in their careers more quickly.
National defence ribbons symbolize the dedication and sacrifices made by those who serve in the armed forces. These ribbons recognize their bravery and commitment to protecting their nation. In the realm of home defence, shotgun shells play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of individuals and families.
Shotgun shells provide a reliable and effective means of self-defence against potential threats, contributing to the overall security of a nation’s citizens. National defence ribbons, therefore, serve as a testament to the unwavering resolve of both military personnel and civilians who work tirelessly to safeguard their communities and uphold the principles of national defence.
Comparison to Other Awards and Decorations
The National Defense Ribbon is not as prestigious as some other military awards and decorations, such as the Medal of Honor or the Silver Star. However, it is still a significant achievement, and it can be a valuable asset in terms of career progression.
Conclusion
The National Defense Ribbon is a significant achievement that can have a positive impact on military careers. It is a symbol of service and dedication, and it can be a valuable asset in terms of promotions, assignments, and performance evaluations.
– Elaborate on the historical significance of the National Defense Ribbon, including its origins, evolution, and role in various military campaigns.: National Defence Ribbon
The National Defense Ribbon was established in 1954 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to recognize members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty during periods of national emergency. The ribbon’s design and criteria have evolved over time to reflect the changing nature of military service and the evolving threats to national security.
Origins and Early History
The National Defense Ribbon was first awarded to members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty during the Korean War. The ribbon was originally known as the Korean Service Medal, but it was later renamed to the National Defense Ribbon in 1966 to recognize the service of members of the Armed Forces during other periods of national emergency.
Evolution of the Ribbon
The design of the National Defense Ribbon has changed several times over the years. The original ribbon was a blue and white striped ribbon with a red border. In 1966, the ribbon was redesigned to include a gold star in the center.
The current design of the ribbon was adopted in 1981 and features a blue and white striped ribbon with a red, white, and blue border.
Role in Military Campaigns
The National Defense Ribbon has been awarded to members of the Armed Forces who have served on active duty during a variety of military campaigns, including the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the War on Terror.
The ribbon is a symbol of the service and sacrifice of members of the Armed Forces who have defended the United States during times of war and national emergency.
Cultural Significance

The National Defense Ribbon is a significant cultural symbol in the United States, representing military service and national pride. It is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who have served during periods of national emergency or conflict. The ribbon’s design and symbolism reflect the values of the United States military, including honor, courage, and sacrifice.
The ribbon is often used in patriotic displays and ceremonies to honor veterans and active-duty military personnel. It is also used in popular culture, such as in films, television shows, and literature, to represent military service and patriotism.
Design and Symbolism
The National Defense Ribbon is a blue and yellow ribbon with a red stripe down the center. The blue represents the sky and sea, the yellow represents the sun, and the red represents the blood shed in defense of the nation.
The ribbon’s design is simple and elegant, reflecting the values of the United States military. The blue and yellow colors are traditional military colors, and the red stripe represents the blood shed in defense of the nation.
Historical Context
The National Defense Ribbon was created in 1954 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The ribbon was intended to recognize members of the Armed Forces who had served during the Korean War. Since then, the ribbon has been awarded to members of the Armed Forces who have served during other periods of national emergency or conflict, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the War on Terrorism.
The National Defense Ribbon is a significant cultural symbol in the United States, representing military service and national pride. The ribbon’s design and symbolism reflect the values of the United States military, including honor, courage, and sacrifice.
Role in Promoting Patriotism
The National Defense Ribbon plays an important role in promoting patriotism and honoring veterans. The ribbon is a visible symbol of military service, and it is often used in patriotic displays and ceremonies to honor veterans and active-duty military personnel.
The ribbon is also used in popular culture, such as in films, television shows, and literature, to represent military service and patriotism. By seeing the ribbon, people are reminded of the sacrifices that have been made by members of the Armed Forces to protect the nation.
Use in Popular Culture
The National Defense Ribbon is often used in popular culture to represent military service and patriotism. The ribbon can be seen in films, television shows, and literature, and it is often worn by actors who are portraying military characters.
The use of the ribbon in popular culture helps to promote patriotism and honor veterans. By seeing the ribbon, people are reminded of the sacrifices that have been made by members of the Armed Forces to protect the nation.
Design a Table

The National Defense Ribbon is a military award presented to members of the United States Armed Forces who have served during periods of national emergency or conflict. The ribbon was established by Executive Order 10448 on April 22, 1953, and is awarded to all members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty for at least 30 consecutive days during any of the following periods:
- December 7, 1941, to December 31, 1946 (World War II)
- June 25, 1950, to January 31, 1955 (Korean War)
- August 5, 1964, to May 7, 1975 (Vietnam War)
- August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995 (Persian Gulf War)
- September 11, 2001, to a date to be determined (Global War on Terrorism)
The ribbon is also awarded to members of the Armed Forces who have served on active duty for at least 30 consecutive days during any other period of national emergency or conflict as determined by the Secretary of Defense.The National Defense Ribbon is a permanent award and may be worn on the uniform of any member of the Armed Forces who has earned it.
The ribbon is worn on the left breast, above all other ribbons and medals.
Table
The following table summarizes the criteria, eligibility, awarding process, and display of the National Defense Ribbon:| Criteria | Eligibility | Awarding Process | Display ||—|—|—|—|| Service during a period of national emergency or conflict | All members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty for at least 30 consecutive days during a period of national emergency or conflict | Awarded by the Secretary of Defense | Worn on the left breast, above all other ribbons and medals |
Organize a Timeline
The National Defense Ribbon has a rich history dating back to World War II. Here is a timeline of key dates in its history:
Establishment and Eligibility Changes
- 1954:The National Defense Ribbon was established by Executive Order 10444, signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
- 1958:Eligibility was expanded to include members of the National Guard and Reserve who were called to active duty during the Berlin Crisis.
- 1961:Eligibility was further expanded to include members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis.
- 1990:Eligibility was expanded again to include members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm.
- 2001:Eligibility was expanded to include members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
- 2003:Eligibility was expanded to include members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
- 2015:Eligibility was expanded to include members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.
Other Significant Milestones
- 1980:The National Defense Ribbon was awarded to all members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty during the Vietnam War.
- 1991:The National Defense Ribbon was awarded to all members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty during the Gulf War.
- 2008:The National Defense Ribbon was awarded to all members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty during the War on Terror.
Illustrate the Ribbon
The National Defense Ribbon is a military award of the United States Armed Forces. It is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who have served on active duty during a period of war or national emergency.The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following colors:
Red
3/16 inch wide
White
1/16 inch wide
Blue
1/16 inch wide
White
1/16 inch wide
Red
3/16 inch wideThe ribbon is worn on the left breast of the uniform.
FAQ Resource
What is the National Defense Ribbon?
The National Defense Ribbon is a military award bestowed upon members of the United States Armed Forces who have served honorably during periods of national emergency or conflict.
Who is eligible to receive the National Defense Ribbon?
All members of the United States Armed Forces who have served on active duty for at least 12 months during an eligible period are eligible to receive the National Defense Ribbon.
What are the different levels of the National Defense Ribbon?
There is only one level of the National Defense Ribbon.
How is the National Defense Ribbon worn?
The National Defense Ribbon is worn on the left chest of the military uniform, above all other service ribbons and medals.

Emma Nehls is a military writer and historian with a passion for exploring the intricacies of warfare and the human experience within the military. With extensive knowledge and a deep understanding of military strategy, tactics, and historical contexts, Nehls brings a unique perspective to his writings.