Unit citation

Summary

A unit citation is a formal, honorary mention by high authority of a military unit's specific and outstanding performance, notably in battle.

Similar mentions can also be made for individual soldiers.

Alternatively or concurrently, the unit can be awarded an honorary title, a mention on the flag or a decoration.

In France, since 1916, the fourragère (an ornamental colored cord) is worn on the uniform by the members of a unit which had received several citations. This tradition has since spread to other countries.

Unit citations by country edit

Australia edit

Belgium edit

Canada edit

 
The banner of the C-in-C Unit Commendation

France edit

Luxembourg edit

Netherlands edit

South Korea edit

South Vietnam edit

Philippines edit

Portugal edit

United States edit

Military (in order of precedence)

Level Army Navy/Marines Air Force Coast Guard Individual
equivalent
Commander-in-Chief Presidential Unit Citation Distinguished Service Cross (Army)
Navy Cross
Air Force Cross
Coast Guard Cross
       
Department of Defense Joint Meritorious Unit Award
 
Defense Superior Service Medal
branch-specific awards Valorous Unit Award
 
Navy Unit Commendation
 
Gallant Unit Citation
 
Coast Guard Unit Commendation Silver Star (VUA, GUC)
Silver Star or Legion of Merit (NUC)
Meritorious Service Medal (CGUC)
Meritorious Unit Commendation
 
Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation
 
Air Force Meritorious Unit Award
 
Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation Legion of Merit (MUC, AFMUA)
Bronze Star (NMUC)
CG Achievement Medal (CGMUC)
Superior Unit Award
 
none Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
 
Meritorious Team Commendation Commandant's Letter of Commendation (MTC)
Efficiency awards None Navy E Ribbon Organizational Excellence Award
 
Coast Guard E Ribbon

Others (alphabetical)

Further, there are various unit awards of the National Guard and state defense forces.

Sources and references edit

  • Nouveau Petit Larousse Illustré, 1951 (in French)