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 Device Represent?
The Hourglass Device recognizes years of qualifying Reserve service.
It is available in four configurations:
| Hourglass | Years of Service |
|---|---|
| Bronze | 10 years |
| Silver | 20 years |
| Gold | 30 years |
| Gold and Bronze | 40 years |
Who Can Wear the Hourglass Device?
It is worn by eligible members of the:
- Army Reserve
- Navy Reserve
- Marine Corps Reserve
- Air Force Reserve
- Coast Guard Reserve
- National Guard (when qualifying)
Which Medal Uses the Hourglass Device?
The Hourglass Device is worn only on the Armed Forces Reserve Medal.
Why It Matters
Unlike campaign stars or oak leaf clusters, the Hourglass Device represents long-term Reserve service, making it unique among U.S. military ribbon devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Bronze Hourglass mean?
Ten years of qualifying Reserve service.
Can more than one Hourglass Device be worn?
The appropriate hourglass configuration is worn to represent the member’s total qualifying service.
Is it awarded for active-duty service?
No. It recognizes qualifying Reserve service.