USMC and Military Awards - How does it work?

Hey folks, I'm thinking about joining the military after school and was intrigued by the USMC. Can anyone help me understand the system of military awards in the USMC? Like, how does one get awarded and for what types of achievements? Appreciate any insight, thanks.

Most branches of the U.S. military, including the United States Marine Corps (USMC), have a structured system for recognizing the outstanding performance, bravery, and dedication of their service members. The USMC uses a combination of medals, ribbons, badges, and commendations to decorate their members for various types of achievements. Here's a general breakdown of how the system works:

1. Personal Decorations: These are the uppermost level of military awards in the USMC, bestowed for exceptional acts of bravery, extraordinary achievement, or meritorious service.

2. Unit Awards: These are given to an entire unit (such as a battalion or a squadron) for exceptionally meritorious conduct.

3. Campaign and Service Awards: These recognize participation in a specific military campaign, battle, or war or for fulfilling specific service requirements in a satisfactory manner.

4. Marksmanship and Skill Awards: Given for proficiency in marksmanship during designated weapons qualification tests.

As for how the awards are given, the decoration process in the military is quite formal. A service member's superior must document the action or contribution and recommend the individual for the award. This recommendation is further reviewed, and if approved, the award is officially presented.

Remember, though, joining the military should not be about seeking awards. The primary purpose of the USMC, like all branches of the military, is to defend the country and its interests. It's a role that requires dedication, discipline, and often, personal sacrifice. Military awards merely serve to recognize exceptional performance within this system. It's the commitment to service that should ultimately guide your decision.