1. Women’s Army Corps Service Medal:
Established: July 29, 1943.
Eligibility:
Awarded to female Army personnel for service in the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) between July 10, 1942, and August 31, 1943.
Also awarded for service in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) between September 1, 1943, and September 2, 1945.
This medal has since been discontinued, making it a rare artifact of World War II-era military history.
Design:
Obverse:
Features Pallas Athena, helmeted and in profile, representing wisdom and strength.
Includes a sword and oak leaves behind her head, encircled by the inscription: “WOMEN’S ARMY CORPS.”
Reverse:
Depicts an eagle holding a scroll inscribed “FOR SERVICE IN THE WOMEN’S ARMY AUXILIARY CORPS”, flanked by stars.
Includes the years “1942-1943” at the bottom.
Ribbon: Green with yellow edges.
Dimensions: 37.08 mm x 32.61 mm.
Significance:
Recognizes the invaluable contributions of women in the U.S. Army during World War II and symbolizes their groundbreaking role in military service.
2. Coast Guard Commendation Medal:
Established: 1947, originally as the Coast Guard Commendation Ribbon; it was redesignated as the Commendation Medal in 1959.
Eligibility:
Awarded for sustained acts of heroism or meritorious service within the U.S. Coast Guard.
Part of a broader series of Commendation Medals issued by each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, with a fifth version for joint military service under the Department of Defense.
Design:
Obverse:
Similar in design to the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, reflecting the unity of the branches.
Crafted with distinctive elements symbolizing the Coast Guard’s mission and values.
Ribbon:
Green ribbon with symmetrical white stripes, signifying service and achievement.
Evolution:
Initially introduced as a service ribbon in 1947, renamed the “Commendation Ribbon with Metal Pendant” in 1949, and finally authorized as a full medal in 1960.
Dimensions: 41.14 mm x 31.77 mm.
Set Overview:
This set of two medals highlights significant aspects of U.S. military history:
The Women’s Army Corps Service Medal commemorates the trailblazing contributions of women during World War II.
The Coast Guard Commendation Medal reflects the courage and service of Coast Guard personnel in the postwar period.
Condition:
Both medals retain their original ribbons and detailing.
Please refer to accompanying images for further evaluation of condition.