(a) General Authority.—The Maritime Administrator may issue a special certificate to an individual, or the personal representative of an individual, in recognition of service of that individual in the merchant marine of the United States, if the service has been determined to be active duty under section 401 of the GI Bill Improvement Act of 1977 (Public Law 95–202; 38 U.S.C. 106 note).
(b) Relationship to Other Laws.—Issuance of a certificate under subsection (a) does not entitle an individual to any rights, privileges, or benefits under a law of the United States.
Structure US Code
Part B— Merchant Marine Service
CHAPTER 519— MERCHANT MARINE AWARDS
§ 51901. Awards for individual acts or service
§ 51904. Presentation to representatives
§ 51905. Flags and grave markers
§ 51906. Special certificates for civilian service to armed forces
§ 51907. Provision of decorations, medals, and replacements
§ 51908. Prohibition against unauthorized manufacture, sale, possession, or display of awards