The Special Operations Service Ribbon is a decoration of the United States Coast Guard

United States Coast Guard

The United States Coast Guard is a branch of the United States Armed Forces and one of the seven U.S. uniformed services. The Coast Guard is a maritime, military, multi-mission service unique among the military branches for having a maritime law enforcement mission and a federal regulatory agency...

 which was first created in July 1987 by order of Commandant of the Coast Guard, Admiral

Admiral

Admiral is the rank, or part of the name of the ranks, of the highest naval officers. It is usually considered a full admiral and above vice admiral and below admiral of the fleet . It is usually abbreviated to "Adm" or "ADM"...

 Paul A. Yost Jr. The decoration is authorized for certain acts of non-combat meritorious service, performed in the service of the U.S. Coast Guard, for which no other service medal or ribbon is authorized.

The four main areas of eligibility, for the presentation of the Special Operations Service Ribbon, are listed as follows:

• Coast Guard operations of a special nature involving multiple agency involvement pertaining to national security or law enforcement.
• Coast Guard operations of a special nature in support of special events drawing large media interest and public attention.
• Coast Guard operations or involvement with foreign government in all areas of saving life and property at sea.
• Coast Guard operations of assistance for friendly and/or developing nations.

Multiple awards of the Special Operations Service Ribbon are denoted by service stars.

See also: Awards and decorations of the United States military

Awards and decorations of the United States military

Awards and decorations of the United States Military are military decorations which recognize service and personal accomplishments while a member of the United States armed forces...