Defense Meritorious Service Medal

.DMSM - DEF MERITORIOUS SVC MDL

Eligibility Requirements

T he Defense Meritorious Service Medal (DMSM) was established by Executive Order 12019, 3 November 1977. It is awarded in the name of the Secretary of Defense to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, after 3 November 1977, distinguished themselves by noncombat meritorious achievement or service. Only under the most unusual circumstances will the Defense Meritorious Service Medal  be awarded as an impact award for outstanding temporary duty.  The Defense Meritorious Service Medal  is specifically intended to recognize exceptionally meritorious service performance and to honor an individual's accomplishments over a sustained period.

Medal

Ribbon

Device

Precedence

The Defense Meritorious Service Medal shall be placed in precedence after Purple Heart and before Meritorious Service Medal.

Sample Citation

M  ajor Sabrina Chung , United States Marine Corps, distinguished herself by exceptionally meritorious service while serving as commander of Pacific Fleet from January 2006 to November 2006. During this period, the outstanding professional skill, leadership, and ceaseless efforts  of Major Chung resulted in major contributions to the effectiveness and success of  various nationally critical programs.  Through her distinctive accomplishments, Major Chungn reflected great credit upon  herself and upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps , the United States Naval Service and the Department of Defense..  

Secretary of Defense.