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DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY -- NAVAL HISTORICAL CENTER
901 M STREET SE -- WASHINGTON NAVY YARD
WASHINGTON DC 20374-5060

Unit Citations and Commendations

Presidential Unit Citation


Established by Executive Order, 6 February 1942, this is the nation's highest unit award. It is issued in the name of the President of the United States as public evidence of deserved honor and distinction to any organization, detachment, installation, ship, aircraft, or other unit for outstanding performance in action.

Navy Unit Commendation

Established by order of the Secretary of the Navy, 18 December 1944, it is awarded by the Secretary to any ship, aircraft, detachment, or other unit of the naval service of the United States Navy which has, subsequent to 6 December 1941, distinguished itself by outstanding heroism in action against the enemy, but not sufficient to justify award of the Presidential Unit Citation.

Meritorious Unit Commendation

Established by order of the Secretary of the Navy, 17 July 1967, it is awarded by the Secretary to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps which has distinguished itself under combat or noncombat conditions, by either valorous or meritorious achievement compared to other units performing similar service, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Navy Unit Commendation.
Last Update: 1 October 96