Obverse:  A gold medal 2 inches high by 1 inches wide consisting of a Cross Aiguise with anchors radiating outwards between the arms of the cross.  Extending from the uppermost arm, two oars per saltire, paddles to chief, with a rope wrapped around the oar handles and incorporating a ribbon ring behind the paddles.  Centered on the cross and encircled by a laurel wreath of 26 enameled green leaves is a shield similar to that found in the Great Seal of the United States.  The stripes of the shield are alternating red and white colored enamel, while the chief is enameled blue with 13 white five-pointed stars.

Reverse:  The reverse is identical to the obverse, except the center does not have a shield.  In the center is the inscription FOR arched above and VALOR arched below.  Space is available for engraving the recipients name and date of award.

Ribbon:  The cross is suspended from a 1-3/8 inch ribbon of navy blue.  In the center is a 5/32-inch stripe of scarlet, flanked by 1/16-inch stripes of ultramarine blue, bordered in white. 

Medal:  The Cross stands for personal sacrifice. The central portion symbolizes the National Coat of Arms which signifies representation and allegiance encircled by the laurel wreath which symbolizes honor. The anchors, crossed oars and entwined rope are familiar Coast Guard and maritime symbols and describe the marine environment where these acts of valor were performed.

Ribbon:  Dark blue signifies loyalty and devotion, white represents purity and blue symbolizes thoughtfulness and truth.  Scarlet signifies courage, patriotism and valor.