Merchant Marine Combat Bar

BACK DEVICE(s)

Description:

1. Authorized by an Act of Congress on 10 May 1943.
2. Awarded to members of the Merchant Marine who served on a ship when it was attacked or
   damaged by an enemy or an instrument of war, such as a mine during the Second World War.
3. This award is a ribbon bar only.
4. Further prescribed is the issuance a silver star to be attached to such bar to seamen who are forced to abandon ship when it is so attacked or damaged.
5. For each additional abandonment, an additional star is attached.
6. It is no longer awarded.

Background:

1. Ribbon
   The ribbon are 1 3/8" in width and designed in the vertical layout sky blue, white, crimson, white, and navy blue silk.
2. Device(s)
   5/16th inch silver stars signify additional awards and are affixed to the ribbon bar. For each additional abandonment, an additional star is attached.