Final answer:
No medal, cross, bar, or emblem is awarded to an individual if service following the distinguished act has not been honorable, reflecting the importance of sustained honor in military and governmental honors systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
The principle that no medal, cross, bar, or associated emblem should be awarded or presented to any individual if the service after the distinguishing act or period has not been honorable is often found in military and governmental honors systems. These systems are designed to recognize individuals for meritorious service or gallant action, but also emphasize the need for continued honorable service. For instance, the historical custom of Roman knights presenting their accounts of service illustrates the importance of honor in the discharge and awarding of honors and penalties during that era. Similarly, the U.S. military awards such as the Medal of Honor have strict criteria that include honorable service beyond the act of valor.