History

The China Service Medal was established by Navy Department General Order on July 1, 1942. The Bronze Medal was initially awarded to Navy and Marine Corps personnel who served ashore in China or aboard a vessel that provided service in support of operations in China between July 7, 1937, and September 7, 1939. The award of the Medal was later expanded on March 6, 1947, to reward Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and some qualifying members from other Armed Forces service personnel for service in operations in China, Taiwan, and Matsu Straits between September 2, 1945, and April 1, 1957.

Recipients who received the Medal in recognition of service during the 1937-1939 qualifying period who were later eligible for the Medal for service provided between 1945 and 1957, wore a bronze star on the ribbon to denote the subsequent award.

There are 2 versions of the Medal for the Navy and the Marine Corps which vary by the reverse inscription of the service.

Medals issued for the 1937-1939 period were stamped on the rim with the serial number.