The armed forces of Germany, the United States and others have engaged in awarding streamers.
Unlike the Army–Air Force practice, the Marines and Navy use one ribbon for each war, campaign, or theater of operations.
Specific actions or battles are highlighted by bronze and silver stars embroidered on the ribbon.
The Marine Corps has 57 streamers,[5][6] the Navy 36, and the Coast Guard uses 43, unadorned by either stars or lettering.
Conflicts and operations for which no medal was issued have ribbons specially designed for use as streamers.