National Security Medal - Definition and Overview

National Security Medal

The National Security Medal is a decoration of the United States of America which was first created in 1947 by order of the United States National Security Council.

The decoration is awarded to any citizen of the United States who performs distinguished achievement or outstanding contribution, on or after 26 July 1947, in the field of intelligence relating to the national security of the United States of America.

The National Security Medal is authorized to both civilians and personnel of the United States military and is an authorized decoration for display on active duty uniforms of the United States armed forces. As a civilian award, the National Security Medal is worn after all U.S. military awards and before any foriegn decorations.

Additional decorations of the National Security Medal are denoted by a bronze oak leaf cluster. The decoration is senior in rank to the National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal, issued by the National Intelligence Agency.