- Time Period: Post-WW2
- Institution: 19 January 1977
- Country: United States
The Humanitarian Service Medal (HSM) is a U.S. military award established on January 19, 1977, by President Gerald Ford 🔗 through Executive Order 11965. It recognizes members of the Armed Forces, including Reserve and National Guard, for meritorious participation in humanitarian missions, such as disaster relief, refugee support, or non-combatant evacuations.
The medal was proposed in 1975 by Julia V. Taft, head of the Interagency Task Force for Indochinese Resettlement, to honor military personnel aiding Vietnamese and Cambodian refugees after the Vietnam War. Despite initial opposition from Army Lieutenant General Harold G. Moore, who favored certificates over medals, Army Lieutenant General John W. Vessey supported the idea, leading to its approval by President Ford.
The Humanitarian Service Medal Criteria
The HSM is awarded for activities designated by the Department of Defense, including natural disaster relief and humanitarian operations. It cannot be given for domestic disturbances or when other military awards like the Armed Forces Service Medal are issued for the same mission. The award is retroactive to April 2, 1975.
For civilians, the Department of the Army offers a similar recognition, the Civilian Award for Humanitarian Service.
The Humanitarian Service Medal Design
The Humanitarian Service Medal (HSM) is crafted from a durable, high-quality metal alloy and features intricate detailing that symbolizes its purpose. The medal is accompanied by a ribbon made of woven fabric, designed to complement the medal’s theme of service and recognition.
The obverse of the medal features a laurel wreath encircling a raised depiction of a helping hand. The hand is symbolic of assistance and support, reflecting the humanitarian mission recognized by the award. This imagery highlights the dedication of U.S. military personnel to aiding those in need. The reverse side bears a simple inscription that reads “For Humanitarian Service,” along with space for additional engraving if required. The clean, understated design emphasizes the selfless nature of the contributions being honored.
The medal is suspended from a ribbon featuring alternating vertical stripes of purple and white. The purple symbolizes dedication and compassion, while white signifies purity of purpose and service. The ribbon’s color scheme reinforces the theme of humanitarian aid and the noble qualities associated with such efforts.
