What type of star signifies the first ribbon award?

The first ribbon award in the NJROTC program is indicated by the absence of any star. This means that a cadet who earns this initial award does not receive a star, signifying that they are at the foundational level of achievement. Stars are used as indicators for subsequent awards, with each type of star representing a different level of accomplishment beyond the initial recognition. Consequently, the absence of a star effectively denotes the starting point in the progress of earning ribbons, setting the stage for future achievements and symbols of excellence.