Distinguished Service Medal

The Distinguished Service Medal is awarded to any person who, while serving in any capacity with the United States Army, has distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service to the Government in a duty of great responsibility.

The performance must be such as to merit recognition for service which is clearly exceptional. Exceptional performance of normal duty will not alone justify an award of this decoration. For service not related to actual war, the term “duty of a great responsibility” applies to a narrower range of positions than in time of war and requires evidence of a conspicuously significant achievement. However, justification of the award may accrue by virtue of exceptionally meritorious service in a succession of high positions of great importance. Awards may be made to persons other than members of the Armed Forces of the United States for wartime services only, and only then under exceptional circumstances with the express approval of the president in each case

General Henry Duncan Graham Crerar CH CB DSO
Lt-Gen. H.D.G. Crerar, CB, DSO, Canadian Army, performed exceptionally meritorious service in a position of great responsibility as General officer Commanding in Chief of the First Canadian Army. This army, under his leadership, played a vital role in the operations in Europe of the Allied Armies. From the initial assault of the Normand beaches until the final surrender of Germany, through varied terrain and under adverse conditions, this command fought brilliantly through a series of campaigns. Its accomplishments were largely due to the resourcefulness, determination and skilful leadership of this officer.