Lapel Pin - Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal

Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal Lapel Pin

This lapel pin represents the Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal (CGDSM), established on August 4, 1949. It recognizes coast guardsmen who distinguish themselves through exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a position of great responsibility. The exceptional performance of duty must be clearly above what is normally expected and must have contributed materially to the success of a major command or project. Prior to 1949, Coast Guard members eligible for this level of recognition instead received the Navy Distinguished Service Medal.

Though authorized in 1949, the medal wasn't actually awarded until 1961, when Admiral Alfred C. Richmond received the honor. The award is typically reserved for senior Flag Officers, though the first enlisted recipient, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Rick Trent, received it in 1998 after 35 years of service.

Sized for everyday wear, this pin lets veterans display this recognition on a suit lapel or jacket. It's built for accurate detail and lasting durability.

Details:

• Represents the Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal
• Individually priced
• Single clutch-back pin attachment