The Mississippi Rifles takes pride in recognizing individuals and organizations who demonstrate outstanding service, leadership, and commitment to our mission.
Our awards celebrate those who uphold the values of Honor, Integrity, Service, and Brotherhood — the same principles that define our organization.
The Order of Saint Maurice is awarded by the National Infantry Association and the Chief of Infantry. This is to recognize the significant contributions made by Infantrymen, Infantry supporters, and spouses.
THE ORDER OF SAINT MAURICE® has six levels. A nominee for the Order of Saint Maurice must have served the Infantry community with distinction; must have demonstrated a significant contribution in support of the Infantry; and must represent the highest standards of integrity, moral character, professional competence, and dedication to duty. The same medallion is used for each level, with an attachment that identifies the level.
Primicerius (Highest Level) for those who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the entire Infantry with a special version of the award going to the Infantry Doughboy Award winners each year. Must be or have been Infantry Branch. Active and RC nominees must be members of the NIA.
Centurion (Middle Level, BDE and BN Officer/NCO Leadership and Special Nominees) for an outstanding contribution to the Infantry. Most recent MOS must be or have been (Retired) Infantry Branch. Active and RC nominees must be members of the NIA.
Legionnaire Exclusively for Infantrymen, this award recognizes outstanding or conspicuous contribution to the Infantry by an Infantryman. Active and RC Infantrymen who are nominees must be members of the NIA.
Civis For civilian personnel who have supported the U.S. Infantry.
Peregrinus For foreign military personnel who have served in or supported the U.S. Infantry.
Cohort Award For young Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers who have demonstrated excellence in performance and significantly contributed to their Infantry Battalion’s success. This award is an initial foundation for Infantrymen for future awarding of the Legionnaire, Centurion, and Primicerius levels of the Order of Saint Maurice. Additionally, Soldiers of other branches and servicemen from other US Armed Services are eligible for this level. Active duty and RC Infantrymen who are nominees must be members of the NIA.
The Shield of Sparta is awarded by the National Infantry Association and the Chief of Infantry. This is to recognize the significant contributions made by Infantry spouses.
SHIELD OF SPARTA – HEROINE OF THE INFANTRY is awarded to a spouse who has contributed significantly to the Infantry. The NIA’s goal is to recognize spouses of Infantrymen and other Soldiers in support roles, whose contributions deserve special recognition by the National Infantry Association and the Infantry community. The award is a token of appreciation for the sacrifice and commitment demanded of the spouses and supporters of Infantrymen and other Soldiers. It further symbolizes these individuals as true patriots with selfless ideals and the courage to send their Soldier into harm’s way.
If you’re not ready to become a full member, you can still contribute by making a donation or purchasing Mississippi Rifles merchandise in our online shop.
