The Presidential Unit Citation (or PUC) is a military award presented to units of the United States Armed Forces and those of allied countries for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy.
It is one of the highest unit awards that can be bestowed upon a military organization and is considered a significant honor.
The PUC is awarded by the President of the United States in the name of the U.S. Congress. It is typically conferred upon units that have demonstrated exceptional gallantry, determination, and proficiency in combat operations, often under extremely challenging and hazardous conditions.
The Presidential Unit Citation Ribbon Designs
There are several variations of the Presidential Unit Citation, each denoted by a different ribbon or emblem. Recipients of the PUC are authorized to wear the appropriate ribbon or emblem on their uniforms as a symbol of their unit’s extraordinary achievements.
The variations are:
Army Presidential Unit Citation: Awarded to U.S. Army units for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy.
Navy Presidential Unit Citation: Awarded to U.S. Navy units, Marine Corps units, and Coast Guard units when operating under the control of the Department of the Navy for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy.
Air Force Presidential Unit Citation: Awarded to U.S. Air Force units for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy.
Joint Meritorious Unit Award: Awarded to joint units of the U.S. Armed Forces for outstanding meritorious achievement or service in support of combat operations.
Navy Unit Commendation: Awarded to U.S. Navy units, Marine Corps units, and Coast Guard units when operating under the control of the Department of the Navy for outstanding heroism in action against an armed enemy.
The Presidential Unit Citation Submarine Clasps
The Presidential Unit Citation Clasps are small emblems or devices worn on the ribbon of the Presidential Unit Citation to denote additional awards or significant achievements by a unit. The USS Nautilus (SSN-571) and USS Triton (SSRN-586) are two submarines that received the Presidential Unit Citation for their historic achievements.
The USS Nautilus (SSN-571) Clasp
The USS Nautilus was the world’s first operational nuclear-powered submarine and made history by completing the first submerged voyage to the North Pole in 1958. This groundbreaking achievement demonstrated the capabilities of nuclear propulsion in submarines and significantly advanced naval technology. As a result of this historic feat, the USS Nautilus was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for extraordinary heroism and achievement.
The USS Triton (SSRN-586) Clasp
The USS Triton was another nuclear-powered submarine that made history by completing the first submerged circumnavigation of the Earth in 1960. This unprecedented voyage demonstrated the endurance and capabilities of nuclear-powered submarines and provided valuable data for future naval operations. In recognition of this remarkable achievement, the USS Triton was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation.
