The New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal (NJDSM) 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 New JerseyJveterans to honor their service. After World War II 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. Since its re-authorization in 1988, more than 4,000 medals have been awarded to New Jersey combat veterans. 

“The New Jersey veterans receiving the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal are a credit to our state and our nation. Their sacrifice and their bravery in combat is truly deserving of New Jersey’s highest military award. The award also serves as a great way to thank our veterans for their extraordinary achievements while our nation has been at war,” said Acting Governor Donald T. DiFrancesco. 

In order to be eligible for the Distinguished Service Medal you must meet all the following criteria: ~ currently be a resident of New Jersey 
 

~ have been a resident of New Jersey at the time you entered into military service 
~ have been honorably discharged 
~ have proof of having served in combat while on active duty during wartime. 

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

The NJDSM can be awarded posthumously to the next-of-kin of a veteran who meets the criteria. Anyone interested in applying for the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal should send a written request together with copies of all pertinent information, discharge document (e.g. DD 214 ), award citation, honorable discharge, etc. to: 

NJDMAVA 
ATTN: CIO-GS-PA 
P.O. Box 340 
Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0340 

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

For additional information on the NJ Distinguished Service Medal, eligibility, ceremonies, photos, and application copies please visit the medals webpage at www.state.nj.us/military/veterans/dsm.html  information