History

The Vietnam Service Medal was originally instituted as the "Vietnam Service Bar" by Public Law on May 20, 1968, as a ribbon only. On May 30, 1988, the Merchant Marine Decorations and Medals Act authorized the creation of the Vietnam Service Medal to be awarded with the ribbon. The Medal was awarded to Officers and enlisted men of the Merchant Marine in recognition of service on vessels operating in Vietnamese waters between July 4, 1965, and August 13, 1973. Approximately 5,000 Medals were awarded.

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