Medal of Distinguished Service

The Medal of Distinguished Service (Hebrew: :‎עיטור המופת) is an Israeli military decoration.

Overview

The medal has instituted in 1970 by act of law in the Knesset and could also be awarded also for actions performed before 1970.

The medal is awarded for an act of exemplary bravery in the line of duty.

To date, 600 medals have been awarded, the last in 2007. Five recipients have been awarded the medal twice.

Design

The medal was designed by Dan Reisinger; its shape is circular.

On the front of the medal is a sword with an olive branch, symbolizing controlled strength. The reverse is plain.

The medal is attached to a blue ribbon, with two-time recipients of the medal wearing a small clasp in the form of the medal on its ribbon.

The medal is minted by the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation, it is made from 25 gram silver/935 and the clasp is chrome plated metal.

Notable recipients

• Esther Arditi, the only female recipient of the Medal
• Ehud Barak, one of the most decorated soldiers in the IDF
• Michael Barkai, received the Medal for his actions in the Yom Kippur War as a commander of missile ships
• Michael Burt, two-time recipient
• Nechemya Cohen, one of the most decorated soldiers in the IDF
• Ephraim Eitam, received the Medal for his actions in the Yom Kippur War
• Shlomo Hagani, two-time recipient
• Amram Mitzna, received the Medal for his actions in the Six-Day War
• Yonatan Netanyahu, received the Medal for his actions in the Yom Kippur War
• Zevulun Orlev, received the Medal for his actions in the Yom Kippur War
• Dan Shomron, received the Medal for his actions in the 1956 Sinai War
• Amos Yarkoni, received the Medal after his retirement for his years of courageous service in fighting terrorists on Israel's borders
• Giora Epstein, received the Medal for his actions as IAF pilot in the Six-Day War and Yom Kippur War - 17 confirmed kills (Dogfights)

References

• John D. Clarke, Gallantry Medals & Awards of the World, pp. 109-110