DAFORMFILLABLE.COM | DA FORM 4980-3 – Distinguished Service Medal Certificate is an official document issued by the United States Army. This form is used to award the Distinguished Service Medal, a prestigious honor recognizing exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility. The form is a testament to the dedication and outstanding performance of military personnel.
DA FORM 4980-3 – Distinguished Service Medal Certificate
| Form Number | DA Form 4980-3 |
| Form Title | Distinguished Service Medal Certificate |
| Form Date | 09/01/2011 |
| Form Proponent | G-1 |
Key Details of DA FORM 4980-3
- Pub/Form Number: DA FORM 4980-3
- Pub/Form Date: 09/01/2011
- Pub/Form Title: Distinguished Service Medal Certificate
- Pub/Form Proponent: G-1
- Pub/Form Status: Active
- Prescribed Forms/Prescribing Directive: AR 600-8-22
- Footnotes: 10-Sensitive Forms
- Security Classification: Unclassified
- Distribution Restriction Code: A Approved for Public Release; Distribution is Unlimited
- Pub/Form IDN: 990001
- Pub/Form PIN: 049379
Purpose and Importance of the Distinguished Service Medal Certificate
The Distinguished Service Medal (DSM) is one of the highest military decorations awarded by the United States Army. It honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility. The award is not limited to acts of heroism in combat but includes exceptional service in any capacity within the Army.
Criteria for Awarding the DSM
The criteria for receiving the Distinguished Service Medal are stringent, reflecting the significance of the honor. To be eligible, an individual must have rendered service of such high value that it clearly distinguishes them from others. The award recognizes:
- Exemplary Leadership: Demonstrating outstanding leadership skills in a position of great responsibility.
- Exceptional Performance: Performing duties in a manner that significantly exceeds the expectations of the role.
- Significant Contribution: Making a substantial impact on the success of a mission or the welfare of the organization.
Process for Issuing DA FORM 4980-3
Issuing the DA FORM 4980-3 involves several steps to ensure that the awardee’s service is thoroughly reviewed and appropriately recognized.
Submission and Approval
- Nomination: The process begins with the nomination of an individual by their commanding officer or a senior leader.
- Review: The nomination is reviewed by a board of officers who assess the merit of the service.
- Approval: Upon approval, the Distinguished Service Medal is awarded, and the DA FORM 4980-3 is completed to document the honor.
Completion of the Form
The DA FORM 4980-3 includes specific fields that must be filled out accurately to ensure the proper documentation of the award. Key information includes:
- Recipient’s Name: Full name of the individual receiving the medal.
- Rank and Position: Current rank and position held by the recipient.
- Citation: A detailed description of the service for which the DSM is awarded.
Distribution and Public Release
The Distinguished Service Medal Certificate is classified as unclassified and carries a distribution restriction code of A, meaning it is approved for public release, and distribution is unlimited. This ensures that the achievements of the awardees are publicly recognized and celebrated.
Security and Sensitivity
While the form itself is unclassified, it is designated as a sensitive form, indicating that the information contained within is significant and should be handled with care to preserve the integrity and respect associated with the award.
Conclusion
The DA FORM 4980-3 – Distinguished Service Medal Certificate is a critical document in recognizing the extraordinary contributions of Army personnel. By adhering to strict criteria and a thorough review process, the Army ensures that only those who demonstrate exceptionally meritorious service are honored with this prestigious award. The public release of this information allows for the celebration and acknowledgment of the distinguished service members who go above and beyond in their duties.
By understanding the significance and process associated with the Distinguished Service Medal Certificate, individuals and organizations can better appreciate the value and honor bestowed upon those who receive this distinguished recognition.