Note: The precedence of particular awards will vary slightly among the different branches of service. All awards and decorations may be awarded to any service member unless otherwise designated by name or notation. [1] Ribbon/award name [2] Distinguished service medals – Awarded for "exceptionally meritorious service in a duty of great responsibility" This list of Awards and decorations of the United States Armed Forces, denotes the various service ribbons, and badges which recognize military service and personal accomplishments of members of the U.S. Armed Forces. Such awards are a means to outwardly display the highlights of a service member's career. Service ribbons, ribbon devices, and badge awards displayed on a Command Master Chief Williams Brooks Smith enlisted service uniform.