The Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm was established in 1950 by the former government of South Vietnam to recognize acts of valor, heroism, and combat gallantry. [1, 2, 3]
Individual vs. Unit Awards
- Individual Award: Conferred upon personnel who performed specific deeds of personal valor in combat. The level of the citation is denoted by a device attached to the ribbon: a bronze palm for an Army-level citation, a gold star for a Corps-level citation, a silver star for a Division-level citation, and a bronze star for a Brigade- or Regiment-level citation. [1, 2]
Wearing and Regulations
- Simultaneous Wear: Official military regulations (such as those outlined via the Australian War Memorial) generally allow for the wearing of both individual decorations and unit citations if separately earned. [1]
- Restriction: Earning and wearing the Unit Citation emblem does not automatically grant authorization to wear the full-sized individual Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Unit Citation medal unless an individual was personally decorated. [1]
- Most users on Reddit note that the palm-embellished ribbon seen on many western service uniforms is most commonly the unit award rather than a personal medal. [1]
If you are looking up eligibility for a specific service member, let me know:
- Which country's military they served in (e.g., Australian Army, US Forces)
- Whether you are checking for an individual medal or a unit citation
