DSM
Military abbreviation · Military Award and Decoration
| Stands for | Distinguished Service Medal |
|---|---|
| Categories | Military |
DSM stands for Distinguished Service Medal, a military award and decoration abbreviation.
US decoration for exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility, usually awarded to general and flag officers at the end of senior assignments. Each service and the Defense Department have their own versions.
Example: The admiral received the Navy DSM at his retirement ceremony.
Usage notes
The Army Distinguished Service Medal dates from 1918. The Defense Distinguished Service Medal is the highest joint award for non-combat service. The Royal Navy's Distinguished Service Medal is a gallantry award for other ranks.
Related abbreviations
More military award and decoration abbreviations
- CAB – Combat Action Badge
- CAR – Combat Action Ribbon
- CIB – Combat Infantryman Badge
- CMB – Combat Medical Badge
- DFC – Distinguished Flying Cross
- DSC – Distinguished Service Cross
- DSO – Distinguished Service Order
- EFMB – Expert Field Medical Badge
- EIB – Expert Infantryman Badge
- ESB – Expert Soldier Badge
- GC – George Cross
- GCM – Good Conduct Medal