Meritorious Service Medal (United States)

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The Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) is a military award presented to members of the United States Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding meritorious achievement or service to the United States. The award is typically given for non-combat meritorious achievement or service.

History

The Meritorious Service Medal was established by Executive Order 11448 signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on January 16, 1969. The medal was created to recognize the non-combat meritorious service of members of the United States Armed Forces.

Criteria

The Meritorious Service Medal is awarded to any member of the United States Armed Forces who has distinguished themselves by outstanding meritorious achievement or service. The performance must be such as to merit recognition for service that is clearly outstanding and of major significance to the United States.

Appearance

The medal is a bronze hexagon, 1 1/2 inches in diameter. The obverse design consists of six rays issuing from the upper three points of the hexagon, with an eagle in the center. The reverse contains the inscription "United States of America" and a space for engraving the recipient's name. The ribbon is predominantly purple with white edges.

Notable Recipients

• General David Petraeus
• Admiral Michael Mullen
• General Stanley A. McChrystal

Related Awards

• Defense Meritorious Service Medal
• Air Medal
• Bronze Star Medal
• Army Commendation Medal

See Also

• Awards and decorations of the United States Armed Forces
• List of military decorations
• United States Department of Defense