How do I recharge the spring on a commendation bar holder?

Over time, after moving bars in and out of the holder, the spring element on the back may weaken. When this happens, the bars may slide too freely—or even fall out—because the spring is no longer pressing them firmly into place.

The good news: the spring can be recharged, restoring proper tension and extending the life of the holder.

Here’s how to recharge it:

1. Remove all bars from the holder.

2. Turn the holder upside down so the pins face upward.

3. Locate the spring tab inside the back of the holder.

4. Using a paperclip or similar small tool, press gently on the spring tab to bend it slightly back into its original position.

5. Reinsert your bars and check that they now fit snugly.

Here is an image showing where to press.