An __________ is required in all cases except command-awarded Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal at Navy units.

A Summary of Action (SOA) is a necessary document for recognizing achievements or meritorious service in a detailed manner, which encapsulates the accomplishments of the service member being recommended for an award. The SOA provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of the individual's actions, performance, and contributions, which can be crucial in the evaluation of the medal award process.

In the context of command-awarded Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals at Navy units, an SOA is typically not required because these awards may be given based on a command's discretion and recognition of performance without the need for extensive elaboration through a formal summary. This demonstrates the understanding that certain awards carry different protocols depending on how they are awarded, thus clarifying when an SOA is necessary.