Distinguished Service Medal

The Distinguished Service Medal (DSM) is one of the highest military decorations awarded by the United States Navy and Marine Corps, recognizing individuals who have provided exceptionally meritorious service while serving in a position of great responsibility. **History and Authorization:** The DSM was authorized on April 6, 1917, under Title 10 U.S.C. §8293 and Executive Order 13830. Since its inception, it has been awarded to service members who demonstrate outstanding performance or leadership in significant roles affecting the Navy or Marine Corps. **Criteria and Eligibility Requirements:** The DSM is awarded to individuals who distinguish themselves through exceptionally meritorious service to the United States in positions of significant responsibility. The following highlights the key criteria for this award: 1. **Service Requirement:** The recipient’s performance must exceed the standard for the position held, making noteworthy contributions to the success of major commands or projects. 2. **Typical Recipients:** Historically, the DSM is awarded to officers in principal commands at sea or in the field, such as those leading numbered fleets, major task forces, or large Marine Corps divisions. However, it may also be awarded to any service member whose service is deemed exceptional. 3. **Exclusions:** The DSM is not awarded for acts of heroism; other awards that recognize heroic acts, such as the Medal of Honor and Navy Cross, are more appropriate in those instances. 4. **Combat Conditions:** A "C" device may be authorized if the recipient's service includes exposure to hostile action or significant risk of such exposure, specifically for actions taken under combat conditions following January 7, 2016. 5. **Subsequent Awards:** Additional awards of the DSM are denoted with a 5/16-inch gold star; five gold stars can be replaced with a 5/16-inch silver star. **Notable Recipients:** The DSM has been awarded to a number of distinguished individuals throughout military history. Notable recipients include high-ranking officials and leaders whose exceptional contributions significantly impacted military operations or the strategic direction of the U.S. armed forces. **Procedures:** Nominations for the DSM must be initiated by commissioned officers of the U.S. Armed Forces who were senior to the awardee during the period of service. Once submitted, the nomination flows through formal channels for approval, and the final decision is made by an authority authorized to grant the decoration. **Conclusion:** The DSM represents a prestigious acknowledgment of meritorious service and exceptional performance in significant roles within the Navy or Marine Corps. It embodies the values of leadership and commitment essential to the mission of the U.S. military. For further information on this decoration, including specific regulations and additional guidelines, reference may be made to the official Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual.