Get DOD OPNAV 1650/3 2004

A military medal bestowed upon an individual to recognize valor, meritorious service or achievement under combat conditions, remote impacts on combat operations, non-combat heroism, or non-combat meritorious service or achievement.

It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher.

The Navy Expeditionary Medal (NEM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have landed on foreign shores and participated in operations against enemy forces. Individuals also may be eligible who served in a mission that is considered by an authority to warrant this award.

NAVSO 1650/12. Navy Marine Corps Achievement Medal Certificate.

The Achievement Medal is a military decoration of the United States Armed Forces.... Achievement MedalNext (higher)Service commendation medalsNext (lower)Army: Prisoner of War Medal Naval Service: Combat Action Ribbon Air and Space Forces: Combat Action Medal Coast Guard: Commandant's Letter of Commendation Ribbon11 more rows

Whether it be for actions during peacetime or war, in defense of civilians or one's unit, or for actions in direct combat or out, earning a medal is an immensely significant achievement for any soldier.

The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces, including members of Reserve components on active or inactive duty, of the grade of lieutenant commander/major and below.

Originally designed for recognition of non-combat professional and/or leadership achievements, the Navy Achievement Medal may now also be presented for combat valor, to members of the Navy or Marine Corps. It holds the same level of precedence as the Achievement Medals of the Army, Air Force and Coast Guard.