Presidential Medal of Freedom

Eligibility: Awarded by the President for exceptionally meritorious contributions to national security interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other exceptionally significant public or private endeavors. It is bestowed at the sole discretion of the President. The basis for nomination must be of the most significant nature to the nation as a whole. 

Criteria: Established by Executive Order 9586, "Medal of Freedom," July 6, 1945, as amended. 

Process: Heads of DoD components or officials of the Office of the Secretary of Defense at the level of Assistant Secretary or above shall submit nominations with full justification to the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Force Management & Policy) (ASD(FM&P)) who will recommend to the Secretary whether the nomination should be referred to the President. ASD(FM&P) maintains records on all recommendations and their disposition. 

(Version 2, 1 Jul 96)

Updated on April 20, 1998