Obverse: In the center of a bronze medallion 1-1/4 inches in diameter, a Marine gunner is depicted serving a naval gun. This scene is encircled within a rope, and beneath it is a scroll bearing the motto "SEMPER FIDELIS" (Always Faithful). Encircling the rope are the words "UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS." The whole scene rests upon a fouled anchor with its crown titled to the right. The encircling anchor chain is within the raised rim of the medal. The medal is suspended from a bot action rifle.
Reverse: In the center of a bronze medallion, there is a blank space for engraving of the recipient's name. Around the inside rim of the medal, the words "FIDELITY" (on the left); "OBEDIENCE" (on the right); and "ZEAL" (at the bottom).