Merchant Marine Mariner's Medal
U.S. Merchant Marine decoration for killed or wounded in conflict.
Created in 1943 by Congress, the Merchant Marine Mariner's Medal filled the gap left by the Purple Heart, which was unavailable to merchant seamen. It honors those killed or wounded by enemy action while serving in the U.S. Merchant Marine.
Quick Facts
- Presenter
- United States Maritime Administration
- Campaign
- Second World War
- Established
- May 10, 1943
- Total awarded
- 6,635
- Higher
- Merchant Marine Gallant Ship Citation Ribbon
- Same
- Purple Heart
- Lower
- Merchant Marine Combat Bar
Facts from the source article.
Design
The medal was created by Paul Manship. For each additional award, a 5/16-inch gold star is placed on both the suspension ribbon and the ribbon bar. The medal's presentation case was shared with the Merchant Marine Distinguished Service Medal and the Merchant Marine Meritorious Service Medal. On World War II originals, a small triangle sits between "United" and "States"; later versions use a small dot. Those originals also include Manship's initials "P.M." below the wreath, near the cuff, while re-issues omit these marks.
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