The Navy and Marine Corps Medal is the highest non-combatant medal awarded by the Department of the Navy to member of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The medal may be awarded to service members who distinguish themselves by heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy while serving in any capacity within the Navy or Marine Corps. - The Navy and Marine Corps Medal is the highest non-combatant medal awarded by the Department of the Navy to member of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The medal may be awarded to service members who distinguish themselves by heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy while serving in any capacity within the Navy or Marine Corps.