National Security Medal
Oct 7, 2015
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: Oct 2, 2015
Published on: Oct 7, 2015
Oct 7, 2015
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: Oct 2, 2015
Published on: Oct 7, 2015
Summary
Changes the rules for the National Security Medal to allow more people to get it and makes the nomination process clearer.
What problem does this solve?
The old rules for the National Security Medal were outdated and did not properly recognize important work. This order updates the process to better honor people for their service to national security.
What does this order do?
Expands eligibility for the medal
Allows the National Security Medal to be awarded to any person, regardless of their nationality, for outstanding service or heroism.
Creates a new nomination process
Allows any person with knowledge of a candidate's service or heroism to recommend them for the award through the National Security Council.
Defines the approval and processing steps
Requires the Executive Secretary of the National Security Council to get the President's approval before the award is processed and delivered.
Replaces old regulations
Supersedes the previous regulations for awarding the National Security Medal that were established in 1953.
Who does this affect?
- National security professionals
- U.S. Armed Forces members
- Foreign nationals
What is the real world impact?
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Modernizes an existing award
Updates the 1953 rules for the National Security Medal. The changes expand who can receive the award and create a clear process for nominations, making it easier to recognize important contributions to national security.
When does this start?
This order took effect on October 2, 2015, the day it was signed.