National Defense Service Medal Retired: A Symbol of Service

The National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) has been a significant honor for millions of veterans since its establishment during the Korean War. This medal, authorized at the discretion of the Secretary of Defense during times of national emergency, has been awarded over four million times since 1953. The NDSM has gone through periods of inactivity, with the longest authorization period lasting 21 years, 3 months, and 20 days until it was recently discontinued for the War on Terror.

President Dwight D. Eisenhower initiated the NDSM to recognize the service of honorably discharged veterans during national emergencies. The criteria for the medal’s issuance were outlined in Executive Order 10448, delegating authority to the Secretary of Defense to determine eligibility dates. Since its inception, the NDSM has undergone revisions, inactivation, and reactivation multiple times, expanding its eligibility criteria to include National Guard and Reservist service.

The NDSM has been awarded during major wars such as Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, and the War on Terror. Criteria for receiving the medal expanded over time, with service members becoming eligible after completing 90 days of consecutive active duty, excluding training periods. Additionally, officer cadets from military academies and Officer Candidate Schools could receive the NDSM upon commissioning, further broadening its reach within the military community.

Despite its prevalence, the National Defense Service Medal is sometimes overlooked when veterans are discharged with minimal service duration. Many veterans have applied for retroactive issuance of the NDSM if it was not initially included on their discharge paperwork. However, a recent decision by the Department of Defense marks the end of an era for the NDSM, signaling a shift towards a more peacetime posture with reduced troop deployments and counterterrorism operations.

While the NDSM may have been commonly referred to as the “pizza stain” due to its red and yellow colors, it holds symbolic significance for many veterans who see it as a testament to their commitment during times of national need. The decision to discontinue the issuance of the NDSM to new enlistees after December 31, 2022, reflects changing military priorities and a shift away from prolonged conflict engagements. Despite its retirement, the NDSM remains a cherished symbol of service and dedication for those who proudly wore it on their uniforms.