National Defense Service Medal issued

VFW Magazine, June-July, 2002

The Pentagon announced May 1 that all active-duty troops serving on or after Sept. 11, 2001, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. The dosing date for the medal's eligibility period was left open indefinitely.

"The sacrifices and contributions made by the armed forces in direct response to the terrorist attacks on the United States and to the long-term resolution of terrorism merit special recognition," said Deputy Defense Secretary Paul Wolfowitz.

Most National Guardsmen and Reservists who have served on active duty since Sept. 11, except for "certain categories" according to the Pentagon, are eligible for the award. This is the fourth time the Pentagon has issued the NDSM, authorizing it during the Korean, Vietnam and Persian Gulf wars.

The NDSM does not qualify a recipient for VFW membership.