Established in 1918, the Army Distinguished Service Medal is the Army’s version of the Distinguished Service Medal, which was created to recognize United States Armed Forces personnel who perform service of an exceptional nature on behalf of the government in the execution of a significant operation beyond normal duties. It is typically reserved for senior Army officers.

Established in 1945, the Army Commendation Medal honors members of the United States Armed Forces who have demonstrated outstanding performance and notable behavior over a period of time. Eligible terms of service are those taking place after December 6, 1941 or, for foreign awardees, June 1, 1962; eligible acts of courage typically do not involve risking one’s life.

The Army Achievement Medal is the U.S. Army-specific version of the Achievement Medal. Each branch of the military offers a version of the award, and the United States Department of Defense has also authorized a version of the award to recognize joint activity among more than one branch. The award category was established in order to offer recognition to junior officers and other personnel who do not meet the eligibility criteria for the Meritorious Service Medal or the Commendation Medal; the Army version was authorized in 1981.