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Naval History and Heritage Command

Naval History and Heritage Command

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Public Health Service Distinguished Service Medal


PHS Distinguished Service Obverse

Title: Medal, US Public Health Service Distinguished Service
Accession #: NHHC 1999-140-D
Circa: 1900's
Size: 2.75 x 1.5
Medium: Metal, Fabric
Location: Headquarters Artifact Collection, Naval History and Heritage Command

One Distinguished Service Medal from the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. The planchet is gold and circular in shape. At the center of the obverse is a rod of Asclepius crossed with a horizontal foul anchor in the background with an eagle holding a federal shield in the foreground. The edge of the face is embossed "Public Health Service / United States of America." The reverse is blank. A small suspension ring attaches the medal to a tapered ribbon. The ribbon is maroon with dark blue and white pinstripes on both edges and a gold stripe in the center.

The PHSCC Distinguished Service Medal is the highest award of the organization and is awarded for exceedingly high level of achievements, which may range from the management of a major health program to an initiative resulting in a major impact on the health of the nation. The medal may also be awarded for a single act of heroism resulting in the saving of life, health, or property.


PHS Distinguished Service Reverse

Published: Fri Jun 19 15:08:41 EDT 2020