- Time Period: Post-WW2
- Institution: 3 November 1977
- Country: United States
The Defense Meritorious Service Medal (DMSM) is awarded by the U.S. Department of Defense to military personnel serving in joint assignments who demonstrate outstanding meritorious service, though not at the level required for the Defense Superior Service Medal. In precedence, it is worn between the Purple Heart and the Meritorious Service Medal (MSM).
While similar to the MSM, the DMSM is specific to joint, multi-service assignments, whereas the MSM is awarded within individual service branches. Established on November 3, 1977 by President Jimmy Carter, the medal recognizes non-combat achievements or service, typically spanning more than 12 months, and requires a high standard of distinction.
Eligibility includes personnel assigned to joint activities under the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Combatant Commands, or joint task forces. In 2014, President Barack Obama extended eligibility to include members of friendly foreign forces working with U.S. joint commands.
The Defense Meritorious Service Medal Design
The Defense Meritorious Service Medal is crafted from bronze and measures 1½ inches (38 mm) in diameter. The front features a circular laurel wreath tied with a ribbon at its base, symbolizing achievement. At the center is a pentagon, representing the Department of Defense, with an eagle standing proudly at its base, wings raised to symbolize the United States. The reverse bears the inscription “Defense Meritorious Service” in three horizontal lines, with “United States of America” around the bottom and space in between for engraving the recipient’s name.
The ribbon is 1⅜ inches (35 mm) wide, featuring a pattern of vertical stripes: crimson and white, representing the Legion of Merit, and blue (Bluebird), symbolizing the Department of Defense. The detailed sequence of stripes emphasizes the medal’s connection to distinction and honor within joint military service.
