Navy and Marine Distinguished Service Medal

(Navy and Marine Corps)

For exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility.

Authorized in 1919, 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 our fourth highest military award and  shares this level of prominence with the Army DSM, the Coast Guard DSM and the Air Force DSM, each of which has its own unique design.