The medal's obverse bears bust of Jerry Land facing right in circular center field. Around, THE VICE ADMIRAL "JERRY" LAND / MEDAL / (star) (star) (star) THE SOCIETY OF (star) (star) (star) / NAVAL ARCHITECTS AND MARINE ENGINEERS
The reverse bears organization's logo flanked by two dolphins over cartouche and streamer. In cartouche, FOR OUTSTANDING / ACCOMPLISHMENT IN THE / MARINE FIELD; signed between folds of streamer, PM
The Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers was founded in 1893 as a U.S. engineering society. Today, the group has members in almost every seafaring and offshore energy nation and has various international chapters known as sections.
The medal was named for Vice Admiral Emory S. "Jerry" Land and is awarded for "Outstanding Accomplishment in the Marine Field." Awardees need not be members of the organization. It has been awarded annually since its inception in 1952 when it was awarded to Vice Admiral Land himself.
Emory S. Land (1879-1971) was an officer in the United States Navy, noted for his contributions to naval architecture, particularly in submarine design. Notable assignments included serving as Chief of the Navy's Bureau of Construction and Repair during the 1930s, and as Chairman of the U.S. Maritime Commission during World War II. He was awarded the Navy Cross for his work on submarine design and construction and for work in the war zone.
The hexagonal medal measures 50.7mm x 72.7mm, including the loop. It was struck in gold-plated bronze by the Medallic Art Company of New York. No mintage is reported.
References: MACo 1952-009