Defense Distinguished Service Medal

.DDSM - DEF DISTINGSHD SVC MDL

Eligibility Requirements

T he Defense Distinguished Service Medal was established by Executive Order 11545 (reference (i)), 9 July 1970. It is awarded by the Secretary of Defense to officers of the Armed Forces of the United States whose exceptional performance of duty and contributions to national security or defense have been at the highest levels. Such officers have direct and ultimate responsibility for a major activity or program that significantly influences the policies of the U.S. Government. Only under the most unusual circumstances will the Defense Distinguished Service Medal be awarded as an impact award for outstanding temporary duty achievement. The Defense Distinguished Service Medal is specifically intended to recognize exceptionally distinguished service and to honor an individual's accomplishments over a sustained period.
Normally, such broad responsibilities shall be held by only the most senior officers whose duties bring them into direct and frequent contact with the Secretary of Defense and the other senior officials within the Government. Examples of such positions are the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; the Chiefs and the Vice Chiefs of the Military Services, including the Commandant and the Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps; and the CINCs and the Deputy CINCs of the Unified Combatant Commands.
The Defense Distinguished Service Medal also may be awarded to other senior officers who serve in positions of great responsibility, or to an officer whose direct and individual contributions to national security or defense are recognized as being so exceptional in scope and value as to be equivalent to contributions normally associated with positions encompassing broader responsibilities.

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