Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal

(Coast Guard)

The Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal is awarded for "outstanding devotion to duty, extraordinary courage, and professional skill while serving in the Coast Guard." This medal is typically awarded to senior officers who have distinguished themselves through their leadership and service.

Authorized in 1949, the Distinguished Service Medal is awarded for both combat valor and non-combat services of exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a position of great responsibility. It is the second-highest military award that can be given to a member of the Coast Guard and shares this level of prominence with the Navy/Marine Corps Distinguished Service Medal, Army Distinguished Service Medal, and the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal, each of which has its own unique design.