Service Ribbon Boards

Construction

We offer custom made service ribbon boards not only for USN and USCG vessels, but for display on shore at air wing hangars, support, supply facilities, and base entrances.


These beautifully crafted ribbons are designed for durability and minimal maintenance against exposure to the elements.

Our ribbon boards offer easy installation, and resistance to corrosion. High performance vinyl film provides consistent colors and eliminates color fade for maximum durability. These ribbon boards are made from your choice of 5052 marine grade aluminum, or outdoor grade Plexiglas material. Each material offers its own benefits for a variety of installations. The aluminum material option is available in a fixed welded frame, as individual ribbons, or in our own Ribbon Track design. The Plexiglas material option is available upon request for ships that cannot attach a frame to their superstructure. This option is best used when planning to utilize double faced tape for installation. Regardless of which design you choose, every set of ribbons we make comes ready to install directly from the crate they are shipped in.

Design

Our ribbons are designed to be virtually maintenance free units. All ribbons we manufacture are designed to withstand the punishment of the outdoor environment. The vinyl film used for coloration has a 3 year manufacturer's warranty for color fade, and we stand behind every one of our frames 100%. Our plexiglass ribbons are just as durable as our aluminum ones and cost about 1/3 less to manufacture.

Ribon Track - Patent Applied ForRibbon Track Designed Boards

Tired of purchasing new ribbon boards after you receive your newest award? Maybe your command is based overseas and shipping is a cost nightmare. Whatever the reason, we have an answer to the problems of typical ribbon display. In an effort to supply you with the best products available, we have developed Ribbon Track. This system allows you to update your existing set of boards without sending them back for amendment, or completely replacing them. We feel that the Ribbon Track system is so innovative that we have applied for a US patent.

Why Choose Ribbon Track ??

Cost- The initial cost of a Ribbon Track designed set of boards is similar to a welded "fixed" frame set, but once the initial frame has been made- updates to your awards are a fraction of the price of a new, or amending an existing "fixed" frame set.
Hassle- Ribbon Track allows you to insert new awards into your existing set with a minimal amount of work. Upgrades to the existing set are done by you on site and are very simple to perform.
Shipping- Another costly problem with amending "fixed" frame boards.

How Does Ribbon Track Work??

Ribbon Track utilizes individual ribbons which are secured into a track-based frame. All components are manufactured using the same templates to ensure consistent high quality parts. The ribbons can be removed when amending the frame, and re-installed in the proper order when the amendment is complete.

When you receive your next award- here's what happens...

You place your order for only the award you have received, and required frame components.
We manufacture the new award, and produce the required components to update your existing frames. All frame parts are pre-drilled, and include the stainless steel hardware and instructions to complete the installation.
We send you the new ribbons, frame components, and hardware to install. You complete the frame amendment, and insert the new award when installing your existing ribbons into the amended frames.

How Easy Are Frame Amendments??

If you know how to use a Phillips and flat-head screwdriver, and a 10mm wrench- you've got it covered!! All track is pre-drilled with frame mounting holes as well as set screw holes. The ribbons require no preparation to be inserted into the frame. All frame supports are pre-drilled with frame mounting holes and bulkhead mounting holes in the same locations as the old ones. (you guessed it- no need to drill new mounting holes, just use the existing ones and only drill new ones when your set gets big enough to require it)

You will be amazed at how easy, and efficient this system really is once you use it. We have made every effort during design to keep these units very user friendly.

You can start a Ribbon Track set of boards with a few as 4 ribbons and continue to update them as often as needed.

Installation

Depending upon the type of ribbon boards you request, we offer three ways to secure your ribbons. For welded "fixed" frame, and Ribbon Track designed boards we offer stainless steel hardware, or magnetic mounts. For individual ribbons without frames and Plexiglas applications, we offer exterior grade double faced tape. For base facilities, entrances, and air wing hangars we recommend stainless steel hardware.

We also have the ability to custom fabricate brackets and mounts to hang you ribbons if requested.

We recommend regularly scheduled inspections, as even the highest quality tapes will deteriorate over time.

USS Haws 15 RibbonsSubmarine Applications

For submarines, our ribbons utilize a magnetic installation design which will allow for display on the submarine’s sail.

Prior to leaving port they can be easily removed and stowed.

Sizes Available

We offer 3 different sizes of ribbon boards:

  • 3 1/4”x12” Size ( Each row has 3 ribbons and is 36” long) This size is for vessels up to 130 feet in length.
  • 4 3/4”x 16” Size ( Each row has 3 ribbons and is 48” long) This size is for vessels over 130 feet in length.
  • 6 1/2"x 20" Size ( Each row has 3 ribbons and is 60" long) This size is for aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, and facility display on buildings and base entrances.

Ordering Information

Pricing for our ribbons depends on the size, material, number of ribbons, and attachments desired. We ask that you contact us for an estimate on you specific application.

Ribbon Size, Material, and Installation Method

  • Choose from the three ribbon sizes available (3 1/4"x12", 4 3/4"x16" or 6 1/2"x 20") , then the type of material needed for your application. (Aluminum or Plexiglas), and the installation method you wish to use (Stainless steel hardware, magnetic, or double faced tape)

Ribbons Required

  • List individual ribbons- so we can arrange them in the proper order.

Attachments

  • Indicate any attachment(s) and the quantity required for each ribbon. Images of some of the attachments are located on our Individual Lettering and Attachments page for your reference.

Mirror or Identical Image (not required for Ribbon Track)

  • Identical image- Both ribbon boards are exactly alike
  • Mirror image- One board is reversed to display the proper order when viewed from the other side of the ship

Armed Forces Awards © 2003 - All Rights Reserved
The Armed Forces source for the design, outfitting and maintenance of ribbon boards, military awards and quarter deck equipment.