History

The Navy and Marine Corps Spanish Campaign Medal was established by Navy Department Special Order on June 27, 1908. The Bronze Medal was initially awarded to Navy and Marine Corps personnel who participated in the Pacific Naval Campaign of the Spanish-American War between May 1 and August 19, 1898. The award was later extended to all naval personnel and marines who served in any theatre of war during the Spanish-American War. It is estimated that approximately 2,500 Medals were issued to the Navy and approximately 950 Medals were issued to the Marine Corps.

The Medal features 2 difference reverse inscriptions for the Navy and for the Marine Corps. In 1913, a blue and gold ribbon replaced the previous red and gold ribbon originally issued with the Medal following a diplomatic request from Spain for the United States to discontinue the use of Spanish national colours on the ribbons issued with service decorations.