How to mount marine corps medals on dress blues?

How to Mount Marine Corps Medals on Dress Blues

Mounting Marine Corps medals on dress blues is a meticulous process that requires attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the regulations. Whether you’re a Marine looking to mount your medals on your dress uniform for the first time or you’re a veteran seeking to display your honors, this guide will walk you through the steps to ensure your medals are properly mounted.

Understanding the Regulations

Before we dive into the process, it’s essential to understand the regulations governing the mounting of Marine Corps medals on dress blues. The Marine Corps Uniform Regulations, specifically Chapter 4000, provide guidance on the correct placement, size, and type of medals that can be worn on a dress uniform.

Required Materials

To mount your Marine Corps medals on dress blues, you’ll need the following materials:

• Medal rack or ribbon rack
• Medal pins or prongs
• Ribbon tie-downs (if required)
• Medal mount clips (if required)
• Dress uniform with medals attached

Step 1: Determine the Order of Wear

The order of wear for Marine Corps medals is crucial. The Navy and Marine Corps Medal Order of Wear is as follows:

• Medal of Honor
• Navy Distinguished Service Medal
• Marine Corps Distinguished Service Medal
• Navy and Marine Corps Medal
• Bronze Star Medal
• Purple Heart
• Combat Action Ribbon
• Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal
• Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal
• Expeditionary Medal
• Naval and Marine Corps Medal for Valor
• Combat Service Identification Badge

Step 2: Choose the Correct Medal Rack or Ribbon Rack

There are two types of medal racks and ribbon racks available:

• Medal rack: A medal rack is a metal or plastic device that holds medals in place. It’s typically used for medals that are 3 inches or larger in diameter.
• Ribbon rack: A ribbon rack is a device that holds ribbons and smaller medals in place. It’s typically used for medals that are smaller than 3 inches in diameter.

Step 3: Mount the Medals

Once you’ve chosen the correct medal rack or ribbon rack, it’s time to mount the medals. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Medal rack:

  • Attach the medal rack to the dress uniform using medal pins or prongs.
  • Place the medals on the rack in the order of wear, with the highest award first.
  • Secure the medals in place using medal mount clips or ribbon tie-downs.

• Ribbon rack:

  • Attach the ribbon rack to the dress uniform using medal pins or prongs.
  • Place the ribbons on the rack in the order of wear, with the highest award first.
  • Secure the ribbons in place using ribbon tie-downs.

Step 4: Adjust the Medals

Once the medals are mounted, adjust them to ensure they’re properly aligned and level. Make sure the medals are not too close to the edge of the uniform or too far from the center.

Step 5: Inspect and Finalize

Inspect the medals to ensure they’re properly mounted and aligned. Make any necessary adjustments. Finally, add any ribbon tie-downs or medal mount clips to secure the medals in place.

Tips and Tricks

• Use the correct type of medal pins or prongs: Make sure you’re using the correct type of medal pins or prongs for your medal rack or ribbon rack.
• Keep the medals level: Ensure the medals are level and evenly spaced to maintain a professional appearance.
• Use ribbon tie-downs: Ribbon tie-downs can help secure the ribbons in place and prevent them from coming undone.
• Keep the medals clean: Regularly clean the medals to maintain their appearance and prevent damage.

Conclusion

Mounting Marine Corps medals on dress blues requires attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the regulations. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your medals are properly mounted and displayed on your dress uniform. Remember to always follow the Navy and Marine Corps Medal Order of Wear and use the correct type of medal rack or ribbon rack for your medals. With practice and patience, you’ll be able to mount your Marine Corps medals like a pro.

Table: Marine Corps Medal Order of Wear

Bullets List: Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mounting medals too close to the edge of the uniform
• Mounting medals too far from the center of the uniform
• Not using the correct type of medal pins or prongs
• Not keeping the medals level and evenly spaced
• Not using ribbon tie-downs to secure the ribbons in place