New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal

The New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal was originally issued in 1858 for those who had distinguished themselves in the New Jersey Militia, but was infrequently used until re-authorized by Governor Kean in 1988.

After the Spanish American War, the Mexican Border Expedition and again after World War I, the State of New Jersey minted special medals for returning NJ veterans to honor their service.

After WWII, Korea, Vietnam and subsequent combat actions no such medal was available. The State of New Jersey was looking for an appropriate way to honor all of these returning combat veterans and acknowledge the debt the state owed them for their service. The NJ DSM was then authorized for that purpose. It is New Jersey's highest military award.

Eligibility -
New Jersey residents who are eligible meet all of the following:
~ combat veterans as defined by law.
~ currently be a resident of New Jersey.
~ have been a resident of the state at the time they entered into military service.
~ have been honorably discharged.
~ have proof of having served in combat theater while on active duty during wartime.

Oak Leaf Cluster
Those recipients whose service was recognized by the award of the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Air Medal or equivalent medal will receive a NJ Distinguished Service Medal with an oak leaf cluster.

Posthumously -
The DSM can be awarded posthumously to the next-of-kin of a veteran who meets the criteria.

Application -
Anyone interested in applying for the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal should send a completed application together with copies of all pertinent information, discharge document award citation, honorable discharge, etc. to:

NJ Department of Military And Veterans Affairs
Attn: DVP-VBB
PO Box 340
Trenton, NJ 08625-0340

Note - Be sure to include full name, home address and daytime telephone number.

Contact - For more information call 609-530-6980