US National Defense Service Medal

Material: Bronze
Size: 32mm
Description: This item is an authentic United States National Defense Service Medal accompanied by its matching service ribbon, neatly resting inside its original presentation box. Struck in solid bronze, the circular medal features an obverse design depicting an American bald eagle with outstretched wings perched proudly upon a horizontal sword and palm branch. The words "NATIONAL DEFENSE" are arched symmetrically across the top half of the medal's face in clear, crisp block lettering. The medal hangs from a distinct suspension ring attached to a vibrant silk ribbon featuring a wide central yellow stripe flanked by thin bands of red, white, and blue, terminating in broad crimson borders on each outer edge.
Circa: Mid 20th Century
Notes:
President Dwight D. Eisenhower originally established this decoration via Executive Order 10448 in 1953 to honor military personnel who served during the Korean War. Over its decades-long history, the award was only activated for four specific periods of national crisis: the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Global War on Terrorism. Because it was awarded to nearly everyone on active duty during these windows, it is one of the most widely distributed medals in American military history, affectionately nicknamed the "firewatch ribbon" by service members.