Distinguished Service Medal - Air Force
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| These devices were added in March 2017 | ||||||||||||
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| These devices are included in DoD Inst 1348.33 series. Check your specific service regulations. |
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| Example of ribbon placement (IF only "R", "C", or "V" is authorized - it is centered)  |
Service: Air Force Instituted: 1960
Authorized: DOD Inst 1348.33M
Issuing Country: ( US ) - UNITED STATES
Description:
- Awarded pursuant to Section 8743, title 10, U.S.C.
- The Distinguished Service Medal is awarded to Service members who, while serving in any capacity of the Armed Forces of the United States, distinguish themselves by exceptionally meritorious service to the Government in a duty of great responsibility.
- As of March 2017
The DSM may be awarded with the “C” device to recognize exceptionally meritorious service or achievement performed under combat conditions on or after January 7, 2016. The award narrative must clearly show that the nominee was personally exposed to hostile action, or was at significant risk of exposure to hostile action:
(a) While engaged in action against an enemy of the United States;
(b) While engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or
(c) While serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.
Background:
- This decoration, established by Congress on July 6, 1960, is awarded to members of the United States Air Force who distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility, in combat or otherwise.
- Prior to its creation the members of the Air Force received the Distinguished Service Medal of the Army. Delays in the final selection of this medal's design, and the regulations for awarding it, postponed the Air Force's adoption of it until November 1965.
- Personnel who were awarded this medal, and had previously received a Distinguished Service Medal (prior to 1 November 1965) wear both the original design and the new design. The new design takes precedence over the older one.