![Air Force Cross Medal Ribbon Air Force Cross Medal Ribbon](https://cdn11.bigcommerce.com/s-ftfo7bje46/images/stencil/300x300/products/4688/9110/7780500_1024x1024__91261.1701978706.jpg?c=2)
Army Distinguished Service Cross Full Size Medal
The Army Distinguished Service Cross Medal (DSC) is a prestigious U.S. Army decoration awarded for exceptional gallantry and life-risking actions in direct combat against an armed enemy force. The criteria for earning the DSC surpass the requirements for other standard U.S. combat decorations, falling just below the standards set for the Medal of Honor. Equivalent to the Navy Cross (Navy and Marine Corps) and the Air Force Cross (Air Force), the DSC was established and first awarded during World War I, with some retroactive awards for earlier actions. Notably, it should not be confused with the Distinguished Service Medal, which recognizes meritorious service to the U.S. government, emphasizing individual acts of bravery rather than overall contributions.
MADE IN THE USA