US Campaign Ribbons

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

I recently bought a kilt outfit for my dad (he doesn't know yet). In gathering together the accessories, I remembered seeing men (and a woman) wearing US military campaign ribbons on their Prince Charlies in formal settings...what is the proper protocol on that? Do you have a reference?

As has been stated elsewhere, it is inappropriate to wear ribbon bars with formal highland attire (see AR 670-1). Instead of ribbons, miniatures of decorations and medals are worn after 6PM. While there are specific regulations regarding the wearing of miniature medals on military uniforms, the protocols followed when in civilian attire are slightly different:

The top row of medals should be centered on the left lapel, approximately 1-inch below the notch in the left lapel, with the right hand medal one inch from the inner edge of the lapel. When the Prince Charlie is put on, the top of the ribbons from which the miniature medals are suspended should be parallel with the floor.

Because the number of medals will vary between individuals, it is perfectly okay to "adjust" them slightly to give a neat and balanced appearance, as long as they remain on the lapel. It is alright to have them continue past the lapel onto the breast of the jacket, but it is considered "bad form" to have them pinned directly on the breast.

The best way to obtain a set of miniature medals for your father (and I think that is one of the most elegant things anyone has ever suggested doing here on XMTS) would be to scan in his ribbon bars, and forward the scan to one of the medal suppliers (try www.usamilitarymedals.com) who will then properly mount your father's miniatures.

Best Regards
Scott