West Long Branch Police Department

Awards and Decorations

It shall be the procedure of the West Long Branch Police Department to recognize the actions of its officers, formalizing this recognition in appropriate incidents with medals and awards.  Officers are nominated by a supervisor by way of official Departmental memorandum, using the criteria cited below.  Awards designated as Medals will be worn with the Class A Dress Uniform (blouse coat).  Bars will be worn at all times with the Service Dress Uniform on leather or synthetic badge “trees”.  The highest award is worn atop lesser awards.

Medal of Honor Medal & Bar

An outstanding act in the line of duty at imminent personal hazard of life, with full knowledge of the risk involved.

Combat Cross Medal & Bar

An individual act of heroism, at imminent personal hazard of life, in combat with an armed adversary.

Wounded in Combat Medal & Bar

A wound received in the line of duty, inflicted by an armed adversary and resulting in severe puncture wounds, lacerations, fractures or concussion being suffered by the nominee.

Life Saving Medal & Bar

Alert action in the saving of a Life.

Meritorious Service Bar

A highly unusual accomplishment preventing injury or death to a third party.

Exceptional Duty Bar

A highly creditable accomplishment to duty or service to the Public.

Honorable Service Bar

A creditable act in the line of Duty showing initiative and accomplishment.

Unit Citation Bar

Participation while in the performance of duty which, through teamwork, diligence and perseverance, results in an exemplary outcome.

Department Commendation Bar

Any act of exceptional, professional conduct (such as an Excellent Arrest) which does not elevate itself to the level of the Exceptional Duty, Honorable Service, or Meritorious Service Bars.

Educational Achievement Bar

Achievement of 65 credits or more toward a degree at an acknowledged College or University.