§ 2003. Gallant Ship Award; citation; plaque; citation ribbon bar; consultation with Secretary of State
The Secretary of Transportation may issue a Gallant Ship Award and a citation to a United States vessel or to a foreign-flag vessel participating in outstanding or gallant action in marine disasters or other emergencies for the purpose of saving life or property at sea. The Secretary may award a plaque to a vessel so cited, and a replica of the plaque may be preserved as a permanent historical record. The Secretary may also award an appropriate citation ribbon bar to the master and each individual serving on board the vessel at the time of the action for which the citation is made. The Secretary shall consult with the Secretary of State before giving an award or citation to a foreign-flag vessel or its crew under this section.