Ribbon & Device Identification Guide

Hourglass Device The Hourglass Device is a military ribbon device awarded with the Armed Forces Reserve Medal to recognize extended honorable service in the Reserve Components of the U.S. Armed Forces. Different hourglass colors represent specific service milestones, allowing Reserve members to display decades of dedicated service on a single ribbon. What Does the Hourglass … Read more

The “R” Device recognizes service members whose direct, hands-on actions from a remote location significantly contributed to combat operations. As warfare has evolved, many military personnel influence the battlefield without being physically present. The R Device acknowledges these important contributions. What Does the R Device Mean? The “R” stands for Remote. It recognizes direct operational … Read more

C Device The “C” Device is a military ribbon device that identifies awards earned under combat conditions. It distinguishes meritorious service performed while exposed to combat but does not signify heroism. What Does the C Device Mean? The “C” stands for Combat. It indicates the recipient performed exceptionally while serving in combat conditions where hostile … Read more

Silver Service Star The Silver Service Star is a military ribbon device that represents participation in five designated military campaigns or operations. It replaces five Bronze Service Stars, making military ribbon racks easier to read while accurately displaying campaign participation. The Silver Service Star should never be confused with the Silver Star Medal, one of … Read more

Bronze Service Star The Bronze Service Star, often called a campaign star, is a small bronze device worn on certain U.S. military ribbons and medals to represent participation in designated military campaigns or operations. It should not be confused with the Bronze Star Medal, which is a separate decoration awarded for heroism or meritorious service. … Read more

V Device Explained The V Device, often called the Valor Device, is a small bronze letter “V” worn on certain U.S. military medals and ribbons to signify that the award was earned for acts of heroism or valor during combat. It distinguishes awards received for courageous actions under enemy fire from those earned solely for … Read more