Joint Service Commendation Ribbon- Slide On Ribbon

You are purchasing one Joint Service Commendation Ribbon in a standard slide-on style, designed for wear on military ribbon racks.

The Joint Service Commendation Medal (JSCM) is a distinguished military decoration awarded by the Department of Defense (DoD) to members of the United States Armed Forces who have demonstrated meritorious achievement or service in joint military operations. Established on June 25, 1963, this medal signifies exceptional performance in joint activities that operate under the Joint Chiefs of Staff or other DoD agencies.

This guide provides an in-depth look at the history, eligibility criteria, medal description, authorized devices, and point value of the JSCM to ensure that service members fully understand the honor associated with this prestigious award.

History and Purpose

The Joint Service Commendation Medal was created to recognize exemplary service in joint military assignments. While service members can receive commendation medals from their respective branches (such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Space Force), the JSCM is specifically designated for those who distinguish themselves in joint duty environments.

Eligibility Criteria

• Awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces for meritorious service while serving under a joint activity reporting to the Joint Chiefs of Staff or the DoD.

• Cannot be awarded for periods where the service member is already recognized by a commendation medal from their respective branch.

• Applicable for service members in joint task forces, combatant commands, and inter-agency assignments.

Medal and Ribbon Description

Medal Design

The Joint Service Commendation Medal features a distinctive design that embodies valor and unity:

• Four conjoined hexagons of green enamel, symbolizing the cohesion of joint service operations.

• A gold eagle with outspread wings, gripping three arrows, inspired by the seal of the Department of Defense.

• Above the eagle are 13 gold stars, representing the original 13 American colonies.

• A gold heraldic design at the base, symbolizing land, sea, and air.

• Encircled by a gold laurel wreath, denoting honor and achievement.

• The reverse side has an engraving tablet with the words "For Military Merit", emphasizing the core value of distinguished service.

Ribbon Design

The ribbon of the JSCM features a balanced color scheme symbolizing the joint nature of the award:

• Central laurel green stripe, representing achievement and success.

• Flanking white-green-white stripes, denoting service and integrity.

• Light blue edges, symbolizing the Air Force and the overarching DoD structure.

Authorized Devices and Their Criteria

Service members may be eligible for additional distinguishing devices on their Joint Service Commendation Medal, based on the circumstances of their meritorious service.

Combat "C" Device

The "C" device distinguishes a JSCM earned for meritorious service under combat conditions. Established on January 7, 2016, this device is awarded only when a service member has been directly exposed to hostile action or significant risk of hostile action.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Service must be performed in direct engagement with an enemy.

• Applies to those in military operations against an opposing force.

• The mere presence in a combat zone or hostile fire area does not automatically qualify for the "C" device—direct exposure to combat is required.

Remote "R" Device

The "R" device is awarded for direct and immediate impact on a combat or military operation through remote means, such as drone pilots, cyber warfare specialists, or intelligence analysts.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Service members must directly contribute to an engagement's success while not being physically present in the combat zone.

• Their actions must result in a measurable impact on the battlefield.

• Normal duty performance or routine tasks do not qualify.

Valor "V" Device

The "V" device denotes heroism and acts of valor in direct combat.

Eligibility Requirements:

• The award must be for actions above and beyond normal expectations during direct enemy engagement.

• The service member must have been under personal risk due to enemy hostilities.

• As of January 7, 2016, the "V" device is also authorized on the Air Force Commendation Medal.

Weighted Airman Promotion System (WAPS) Point Value

For Air Force personnel, the Joint Service Commendation Medal contributes to the Weighted Airman Promotion System (WAPS), with a point value of 3. This makes it an important award for those looking to advance in rank within the Air Force.