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DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY -- NAVAL HISTORICAL CENTER
805 KIDDER BREESE 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.
15 July 1996