The Coast Guard Expert Pistol Shot Medal is the highest award that a Coast Guardsmen can receive for a pistol qualification. The current qualifying pistols are the M9 or the P229R DAK. The medal is only worn if the recipient has achieved "expert" status with a qualified weapon. If they have achieved the expert status, the service ribbon is worn with a silver E device. A blank ribbon is worn if they have received the Marksman qualification and a bronze S device if they have the Sharpshooter qualification. First issued in 1969, normal qualification tests include shooting one-handed while kneeling and two-handed while standing.
