Criteria for the National Defense Service Medal The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces for any period between: June 27, 1950, to July 27, 1954 (for service during the Korean War). January 1, 1961, to August 14, 1974 (for service during the Vietnam War).

The bronze star attachment is awarded for every subsequent award of the NDSM. For two awards of the National Defense Service Medal a bronze star is awarded, for three awards, two bronze stars, for four awards, three bronze stars are awarded.

Traditionally, five-star ranks are granted to distinguished military commanders for notable wartime victories and/or in recognition of a record of achievement during the officer’s career, whether in peace or in war.

While Bronze Stars are only somewhat common, those with V devices, for combat gallantry, are much more rare. Only one in 40 Bronze Stars are awarded with a V-device, for those who did well under fire at extreme personal risk.

Currently, the National Defense Service Medal is the oldest service medal (as opposed to decorations for particular achievements such as valor or meritorious service and Good Conduct Medals) currently awarded by all branches of the United States Armed Forces.

SKU: 501 ARNDSMR. National Defense Service Medal Ribbon. The National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) is a decoration presented to recognize all military members who have served in active duty during a declared “national emergency”.

How is National Defense Service Medal abbreviated? NDSM stands for National Defense Service Medal. NDSM is defined as National Defense Service Medal frequently.