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Authorization. 10 U.S.C. 1121.

Eligibility Requirements. Awarded to a member of the Armed Forces of the United States or of a friendly foreign nation who distinguishes himself/herself by exceptionally meritorious conduct in performing outstanding service.

To justify this decoration, the service rendered must have been comparable to that required for the Distinguished Service Medal but in a duty of lesser though considerable responsibility. In general, the Legion of Merit will be awarded to officers in lesser commands at sea or principal commands on shore who have performed such exceptionally meritorious service as to justify the award of the Distinguished Service Medal except as to degree of merit. However, this should not be interpreted to preclude the award of the Legion of Merit to any individual, regardless of grade or rate, whose acts or services meet the requirements. When the degree of achievement or service rendered, although meritorious, is not sufficient to warrant the award of the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal or the Meritorious Service Medal should be considered.

Combat Distinguishing Device. During the Vietnam era the Combat Distinguishing Device was authorized for service subsequent to 17 July 1967. It was discontinued in April 1974; but reauthorized effective 17 January 1991.