U.S. Coast Guard Uniform Guide
USCG Ribbon Devices Explained: Bronze Stars, Silver Stars, Gold Stars, and Proper Placement
In the U.S. Coast Guard, ribbon attachments are small but significant. They represent multiple awards of the same decoration without wearing duplicate ribbons. This guide covers 3/16 inch bronze and silver stars, 5/16 inch gold and silver stars, what each device represents, and how to place them correctly based on COMDTINST M1020.6K.
What do ribbon devices signify
When a member earns the same award multiple times, the Coast Guard does not authorize duplicate ribbons. Instead, attachment devices are added to show repeat awards. These devices tell a visible story of service and achievement while keeping the ribbon rack streamlined.
Two star sizes used by the Coast Guard
- 3/16 inch bronze and silver stars are used on service and campaign ribbons
- 5/16 inch gold and silver stars are used on personal decorations and unit awards
3/16 inch bronze and silver stars
These stars denote additional awards on many service and campaign ribbons. Examples include Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and Humanitarian Service Medal.
What they represent
- 3/16 bronze star indicates one additional award
- 3/16 silver star replaces five bronze stars and represents the next award count
Device arrangement rules
- 1 star centered on the ribbon
- 2 stars evenly spaced left and right of center
- 3 stars one centered, one on each side
- 4 stars evenly spaced and symmetrical
- 5 devices silver in the center, bronze stars alternate to each side starting on the wearer right
5/16 inch gold and silver stars
These are worn on personal decorations and unit awards such as Coast Guard Achievement Medal, Commendation Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Team Commendation Ribbon, and Meritorious Commendation Ribbon.
What they represent
- 5/16 gold star represents one additional award
- 5/16 silver star replaces five gold stars and represents the next award count
Device arrangement rules
- Single device centered
- Two devices evenly spaced left and right
- Three devices one centered, one on each side
- Four devices evenly spaced
- Five devices silver centered, gold stars alternate around it starting on the wearer right
Awards received to devices worn chart
| Award received | Device(s) worn |
|---|---|
| 2 | 1 Bronze Star |
| 3 | 2 Bronze Stars |
| 4 | 3 Bronze Stars |
| 5 | 4 Bronze Stars |
| 6 | 1 Silver Star |
| 7 | 1 Silver Star plus 1 Bronze Star |
| 8 | 1 Silver Star plus 2 Bronze Stars |
| 9 | 1 Silver Star plus 3 Bronze Stars |
Visual examples of multiple star layouts
These examples show how multiple awards are represented with bronze and silver stars. The goal is a centered, symmetrical layout that reads clean on inspection.
Additional tips for proper wear
These details are small, but they matter. Proper device placement keeps your rack accurate and honors what each award represents.
- Letter devices are worn centered. Stars are arranged around the letter, first to the wearer right, then to the wearer left, alternating.
- Maximum devices is five on one ribbon. If more are needed, wear a second ribbon with continued devices.
- Do not mix star types within a category. Replace five of the same type with one silver star.
Coast Guard related items on Pin-iT
Coast Guard insignia and uniform items
Useful categories for uniform updates and inspection prep.
Coast Guard Pins and BadgesCoast Guard Rating Badges
Service Stripes and Hashmarks
Tools and storage
Keep ribbons aligned and protected between wear.
Hard Zip Travel CaseUniform Accessories
USCG Pin iT Card