Introduction to the National Defense Service Medal
The National Defense Service Medal is a military award that was established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1953. The medal is awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who have served during periods of national emergency or war. The award is intended to recognize the service and sacrifice of military personnel who have defended the United States and its interests. In this blog post, we will explore the history and significance of the National Defense Service Medal, as well as the eligibility criteria and design of the award.
History of the National Defense Service Medal
The National Defense Service Medal was established on April 22, 1953, by Executive Order 10448. The medal was created to recognize the service of military personnel who had served during the Korean War and other national emergencies. The award was designed to be a symbol of appreciation for the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces and their families. Since its establishment, the National Defense Service Medal has been awarded to millions of service members who have served in various conflicts and operations around the world.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the National Defense Service Medal, service members must have served honorably during a period of national emergency or war. The eligibility criteria for the award are as follows: * Service members must have served on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training during a designated period of national emergency or war. * The service member must have been a member of the United States Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. * The service member must have served for a minimum of one day during the designated period. * The service member must have been discharged or retired under honorable conditions.
Design of the National Defense Service Medal
The National Defense Service Medal is a bronze medal that features a shield with a blue and white background. The shield is surrounded by a laurel wreath, which symbolizes honor and achievement. The medal is suspended from a ribbon that features a blue, white, and red stripe pattern. The ribbon is designed to represent the United States and its commitment to national defense.
Service Periods
The National Defense Service Medal has been awarded for service during several designated periods, including: * Korean War: June 27, 1950, to July 27, 1954 * Vietnam War: January 1, 1961, to August 14, 1974 * Gulf War: August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995 * War on Terror: September 11, 2001, to present
Devices and Clasps
The National Defense Service Medal can be awarded with several devices and clasps, which are used to denote additional awards or periods of service. The devices and clasps include: * Service star: awarded for each additional period of service * Bronze star: awarded for meritorious service * Arrowhead device: awarded for participation in a combat jump or amphibious assault
| Device/Clasp | Description |
|---|---|
| Service star | awarded for each additional period of service |
| Bronze star | awarded for meritorious service |
| Arrowhead device | awarded for participation in a combat jump or amphibious assault |
💡 Note: The National Defense Service Medal is a significant award that recognizes the service and sacrifice of military personnel. It is essential to understand the eligibility criteria and design of the award to appreciate its significance.
In summary, the National Defense Service Medal is a prestigious award that recognizes the service and sacrifice of military personnel who have defended the United States and its interests. The award has been established to honor the service of members of the armed forces during periods of national emergency or war. The eligibility criteria, design, and devices and clasps of the award are essential to understanding its significance. The National Defense Service Medal is a symbol of appreciation for the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families, and it continues to be an important part of military tradition and heritage.
What is the National Defense Service Medal?
+The National Defense Service Medal is a military award that was established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1953. The medal is awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who have served during periods of national emergency or war.
Who is eligible for the National Defense Service Medal?
+To be eligible for the National Defense Service Medal, service members must have served honorably during a period of national emergency or war. The service member must have been a member of the United States Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.
What are the devices and clasps that can be awarded with the National Defense Service Medal?
+The National Defense Service Medal can be awarded with several devices and clasps, including the service star, bronze star, and arrowhead device. These devices and clasps are used to denote additional awards or periods of service.
