Navy and Marine Corps Medal

Authorized on August 7, 1942, the day the Marines landed on Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands. This medal is awarded to anyone serving with the Navy or Marine Corps, including Reserves, who since December 6, 1941, shall distinguish themselves by heroism not involving actual conflict with the enemy. President John F. Kennedy was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for heroism while serving as a junior Naval officer in the Pacific during World War II.