1. (Army) U.S. military decoration for “exceptionally meritorious service to the Government in a duty of great responsibility.” Established by Congress on July 9, 1918, and awarded to persons serving in any capacity with the U.S. Army.
2. (Navy) U.S. military decoration for “exceptionally meritorious service to the Government in a duty of great responsibility.” The Navy DSM was established on February 4, 1919, and may be awarded to persons serving with the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps.
See the Introduction, Abbreviations and Pronunciation for further details.
