National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal - Definition and Overview

The National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal is a decoration of the National Intelligence Agency of the United States of America which has been in existence since the 1960s. The decoration is awarded to any member of the National Intelligence Agency, either civilian or military, who distinghuishes themselves by meritoroius actions to the betterment of national security in the United States of America.

The National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal is considered junior to the older National Security Medal. In the 21st century, the National Security Medal is rarely issued and most persons qualifying for the decoration receive National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal in lieu.

Due to the presitige of the National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal, and the large amount of bestowals to United States armed forces military personnel, the National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal is an authorized military decoration for display on active duty U.S. military uniforms.