Unit citation

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

Australia

Belgium

Canada

The banner of the C-in-C Unit Commendation

France

India

Luxembourg

Netherlands

Philippines

Portugal

South Korea

South Vietnam

United States

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

  • Nouveau Petit Larousse Illustré, 1951 (in French)