US National Defense Medal (bronze)

US National Defense Medal (bronze)

Bronze National Defense Medal, featuring an eagle perched on a sword and a palm branch beneath the inscription NATIONAL DEFENSE. The reverse displays a shield with the emblem of the United States and an open wreath, with oak leaves on the right side and laurel leaves on the left.

This medal was awarded for honorable active service during the periods 1950-1954, 1961-1974, 1990-1995, and from September 11, 2001 to the present. It was established by President Eisenhower in 1953.