The Ohio National Guard Commendation Medal honors Ohio National Guard members who carry out exceptional service or accomplishments in excess of normal expectations. Civilians may also be eligible for the award, as determined by the Adjutant General.
The Ohio National Guard is composed of the Ohio Army National Guard and the Ohio Air National Guard; it totals an estimated 17,000 soldiers and airmen. The Army component is headquartered in Columbus and dates back to militia activity in 1788. The Air component, also based in Columbus, originated in 1915 with the 112th Observation Squadron.
The medal features the Ohio military crests and an inscription reading “DISTINGUISHED SERVICE - OHIO.” The reverse features an inscription reading “AWARDED TO [NAME OF RECIPIENT] ON [DATE].” The ribbon features an alternating pattern of nine thin vertical red stripes and eight thin vertical white stripes.
Subsequent awards may be indicated by oak leaf clusters.