History

The Order of Naval Merit (Orden al Merito Naval) was established in Venezuela on June 23, 1948. It is conferred upon Venezuelans and foreigners in recognition of distinguished service within the Venezuelan Naval Forces. It is also awarded for act of heroism. The President is the Head of the Order.

The Order is composed by three grades: I Class Badge, II Class Breast Star, and III Class Badge. Originally, the II Class was a breast star with the same design of the badge, however it was modified to the current design when the Order was regulated in 1952. The grade to confer is based on the degree of heroism, not on the rank of the recipient.

The Order has no motto.

The III Class Badge is wore on a Knight's ribbon.