Navy Fleet Marine Force Service Ribbon

In 1984 the Navy and Marine Corps established the Fleet Marine Force Ribbon as new Navy ribbons. These military ribbons are presented to eligible Navy personnel serving with the Marines between 1984 and 2006. These Navy decorations signified the acquisition of specific professional skills, knowledge and military experience that resulted in qualifications above those normally required of Navy personnel serving with the Marine Corps operating forces. As of October of 2006, these military ribbons became obsolete due to the creation of new Marine medals called the Fleet Marine Force Qualified Officer Insignia, and the Fleet Marine Force Enlisted Warfare Specialist Insignia. Qualifying for these Navy ribbons can be done in several ways, but all require extensive learning and testing procedures. To be eligible, Navy officers and enlisted personnel had to be assigned to a Type 2 or 4 sea duty Marine Corps operating force, and complete sections of the Marine Battle Skills Training Handbook. These included studies in areas like Marine history, justice and war law, general leadership, weapons, tactical measures, first aid, land navigation and communications, and physical fitness. After completion, candidates must pass a written exam on this material. Lastly, candidates have to pass the Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test including a timed 3 mile run, sit-ups and pull-ups. The awarding authority could waive the above requirements in cases when Navy personnel demonstrate exceptional skill, knowledge, and leadership while providing support to the Marine Corps in a combat environment. The Fleet Marine Force Combat Operation Insignia is an attachment to the Navy service ribbons. These military ribbons are authorized by the Marine Corps to any member of the Navy who serves under operational control of a Fleet Marine Force unit, or is assigned directly to a Fleet Marine Force unit. The unit, or individual must have engaged in active combat while in service with the unit. The Fleet Marine Force Ribbon is worn in the position below the Navy Good Conduct Medal and above the Navy Expeditionary Medal in the order of precedence governing the placement of all Navy mounted military medals and ribbons for official display on uniforms of Navy personnel.