(1) while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States;
(2) while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or
(3) while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.
Structure US Code
CHAPTER 737— DECORATIONS AND AWARDS
§ 7272. Distinguished-service cross: award
§ 7273. Distinguished-service medal: award
§ 7279. Distinguished flying cross: award; limitations
§ 7280. Soldier’s Medal: award; limitations
§ 7281. Service medals: issue; replacement; availability of appropriations
§ 7282. Medals: posthumous award and presentation
§ 7283. Civil War battle streamers
§ 7284. Medal of honor: duplicate medal