Delaware Code
Chapter 7. MEDALS, DECORATIONS AND HONORS
§ 703. Delaware Distinguished Service Medal.

(a) The Adjutant General may present, in the name of the State, the Delaware Distinguished Service Medal to any person, military or civilian, who has distinguished himself or herself in any capacity as provided in this section.
(b) The Delaware Distinguished Service Medal shall be a medal of bronze, 11/4 inches in diameter. On the obverse is the First Regiment flag with the outline of the State overstamped on it. The words “The Delaware Distinguished Service Medal” are inscribed around the face of the medal. The reverse is plain. The medal shall be suspended by a ribbon 13/8 inches in width and 13/4 inches in length of gold with 4 bands of blue — 2 1/1 6-inch outer bands and 2 1/8-inch inner bands.
(c) The Delaware Distinguished Service Medal may be awarded for meritorious service and outstanding achievement.
(1) A recommendation based on meritorious service recognizes praiseworthy execution of duties over a period of time. Service differs from achievement in that service concerns a period of time versus an act and is usually based on a permanent change of assignment, a completed period of service, or a retirement. The service must clearly distinguish the member from others of comparable grade and time of service.
(2) A recommendation based on outstanding achievement recognizes a single, specific act or accomplishment separate and distinct from regularly assigned duties which impacts the greater good of the Delaware National Guard. An outstanding achievement award covers a short period of time with definite beginning and ending dates.
(d) This medal shall be awarded upon the recommendation of a board of 3 officers and 2 enlisted members as appointed by the Adjutant General.
(e) Only 1 medal may be awarded to any 1 person. For each additional award, a numeral 3/1 6 of an inch in diameter shall be given to the one who has earned the medal, which shall be affixed to the ribbon of the medal. The numeral affixed will designate the total number of times the medal has been awarded to the person.

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