History

The Coast Guard Commendation Medal was initially authorized as the "Coast Guard Commendation Ribbon" by the Secretary of the Treasury on August 26, 1947. In 1951, the award was re-introduced as the "Coast Guard Commendation Ribbon with Metal Pendant," and since 1959, the award has officially been known as the "Coast Guard Commendation Medal." The Bronze Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who served in any capacity with the Coast Guard in recognition of meritorious service, outstanding achievement, and acts of heroism. The distinguishing service which is eligible for the award must be less than that which is required to merit the recognition of an award of a higher decoration, but which still goes beyond the normal expectations of duty.

Gold or silver star emblems may be worn on the ribbon to denote additional awards of the Medal, while a bronze "V" device may be worn to denote awards made in recognition of acts of heroism. Additionally, a silver "O" device may be worn on the ribbon to denote operational distinguishing service.

There are 2 versions of the Medal. The first features an obverse depiction of an American eagle and the Treasury Department's seal with the inscription "United States Coast Guard 1790." The reverse of the first version is inscribed "For Outstanding Service." The second version was introduced when the Department of Transportation took over control of the Coast Guard from the Treasury Department. In the second version, the American eagle and seal of the Treasury Department is replaced by the seal of the Coast Guard, and the reverse features the inscription "Award To [Recipient Details] For Outstanding Service."

It is uncertain if the reverse is officially engraved with the recipient's details.