Defense Service Medal: Recognizing Your Sacrifices

The Defense Service Medal is a military award that has been presented to members of the United States Armed Forces since 1982. This medal is awarded to service members who have provided military service during periods of war or national emergency, and is intended to recognize the sacrifices and contributions made by these individuals in support of national defense. The Defense Service Medal is a symbol of appreciation for the hard work and dedication of military personnel, and is an important part of the United States' system of military awards and decorations.

History and Eligibility

The Defense Service Medal was established by Executive Order 12065, which was signed by President Ronald Reagan on June 28, 1979. However, the medal was not officially implemented until 1982, when the first awards were presented to service members who had served during the Vietnam War. To be eligible for the Defense Service Medal, service members must have served on active duty during a designated period of war or national emergency, and must have performed their duties in a satisfactory manner. The medal is typically awarded to service members who have served for a minimum of 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days during a qualifying period.

Qualifying Periods

There have been several qualifying periods for the Defense Service Medal since its inception. These periods include the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War, and the War on Terror. Service members who served during these periods are eligible to receive the Defense Service Medal, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. The qualifying periods for the Defense Service Medal are as follows:

The Defense Service Medal is an important recognition of the sacrifices and contributions made by service members during these periods of war and national emergency. It serves as a reminder of the critical role that the United States Armed Forces play in defending the nation and its interests.

Award Criteria and Design

The Defense Service Medal is awarded to service members who have provided military service during a qualifying period, and is intended to recognize their sacrifices and contributions in support of national defense. The award criteria for the Defense Service Medal are as follows:

• Service members must have served on active duty during a designated period of war or national emergency.
• Service members must have performed their duties in a satisfactory manner.
• Service members must have served for a minimum of 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days during a qualifying period.

The Defense Service Medal is a bronze medal that features a shield with a torch and oak leaves on the obverse (front) side. The reverse side of the medal features a laurel wreath with the inscription "Defense Service Medal". The medal is suspended from a ribbon that features a wide blue stripe in the center, flanked by narrow white stripes and wide red stripes on the edges.

Devices and Clasps

The Defense Service Medal may be awarded with devices and clasps to indicate multiple awards or special service. The devices and clasps that may be authorized for the Defense Service Medal include:

The Defense Service Medal is an important recognition of the sacrifices and contributions made by service members in support of national defense. It serves as a reminder of the critical role that the United States Armed Forces play in defending the nation and its interests.