The Rhode Island National Guard Service Ribbon honors Rhode Island National Guard members who honorably carry out seven years of uninterrupted service. Federal service in World War I, World War II, or the Korean War may be counted for individuals who subsequently re-entered the Rhode Island National guard within six months of discharge.
The Rhode island National Guard is made up of the Rhode Island Army National Guard and the Rhode Island Air National Guard. The Army component, based in Cranston, dates back to 1638 with the first known colonial militia, a Portsmouth group named the “Traine Band.” The Air component, also headquartered in Cranston, dates back as far as 1915 and currently features the 143d Airlift Wing as its major unit.
The medal features the Rhode Island Coat of Arms encircled by an inscription reading “LONG AND FAITHFUL SERVICE - R.I.N.G.”The ribbon is black with a thin vertical white stripe and a thin vertical yellow stripe on each edge proceeding outward.
Additional five-year terms of service, consecutive or not, may be indicated by clasps.