United States: Navy Distinguished Service Medal. Gilt and enamel (Circa 1970-1990 issue)

Type of decoration issued to United States Navy & United States Marine Corps personnel who have been recommended for deeds performed in campaigns and conflicts circa 1974-1990, including late Vietnam War, Grenada, Beirut / Lebanon etc

This is the fourth highest ranking decoration awarded to the USN and USMC, it is ranked immediately before the 'Silver Star'

The medal riband is fitted with a 12mm crimp-brooch, this with Federal Contractors hallmark 'LI-GI' on reverse of brooch. Complete with long hinged pin & intricate drop lock clasp fittings on reverse, as issued

The Navy Distinguished Service Medal was first created in 1919 and is presented to sailors and marines to recognize distinguished and exceptionally meritorious service to the United States while serving in a duty or position of great responsibility

The Navy Distinguished Service Medal is bestowed upon members of the Navy or Marine Corps who distinguish themselves by exceptionally meritorious service to the United States government in a duty of great responsibility. To justify this decoration, exceptional performance of duty must be clearly above that normally expected, and contributes to the success of a major command or project. Generally, the Distinguished Service Medal is awarded to officers in principal commands at sea, or in the field, whose service is of a manner to justify the award. However, this does not preclude the award of the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to any individual who meets the service requirements. The term "great responsibility" implies senior military responsibility, and the decoration is normally only bestowed to senior Navy flag officers and Marine Corps general officers, or extremely senior enlisted positions such as the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy or the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps. In rare instances, it has also been awarded to Navy captains and Marine Corps colonels, typically those in positions of significant responsibility in direct support of senior flag and general officers, and then only by exception (usually at retirement)

A 'choice' example of the Navy Distinguished Service Medal

Condition: EF

Code: 23711