Description:

Obverse:

In the center of a bronze medallion one and a quarter inches in diameter, a Chinese junk in full sail is shown upon scroll waves; the junk is encircled by the words CHINA SERVICE in stylized lettering. The Chinese junk was used because it is a common sight in Chinese inland and coastal waters and thereby symbolizes the geographic area of operations for which the medal was awarded.

Reverse:

In the center of a bronze medallion, an eagle is shown perched on an anchor; the eagle is facing to the left, and the flukes of the anchor are to the right side of the medallion. The eagle is grasping sprigs of laurel, which extend beyond the anchor in both directions. Above the eagle are the words UNITED STATES NAVY (or UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS). Above the laurel on the left is the word FOR, and over the laurel on the right, SERVICE. The eagle is the American bald eagle and represents the United States; the anchor alludes to naval service. The laurel is symbolic of victory and achievement.

Ribbon:

The ribbon to the China Service Medal consists of a gold background with a red stripe inside each edge. These colors were selected because they are popular Asian colors and represent the geographic area of operations for which this medal was awarded.

Criteria for Award:

(1) To commemorate the services performed by the personnel of the Navy and Marine Corps during operations in China from 7 July 1937 to 7 September 1939, a service medal to be known as the "China Service Medal" will be issued to the officers and enlisted men who participated in these operations.

(2) The award will be made to the officers and enlisted men of the Navy and Marine Corps who served on shore in China during the period from 7 July 1937 to 7 September 1939, and to the officers and enlisted men who were attached to and serving on board any of the vessels mentioned in the following list between the dates appearing below each vessel.

(3) No person is entitled to more than one medal for service during these operations. (Navy Department General Order No. 176 of 1 July 1942.)