Physical Description

An eight-pointed white enameled star superimposed over a green enamel wreath, the center hosts crossed swords and a cross paty, the reverse bears the inscription VIETNAM within a diamond shaped border inscribed with QUAN VU BOI TINH, on a green and yellow striped ribbon.

History

The Military Service Medal was awarded to members of the military for completion of a prescribed period of service, good conduct and high spirit.

It is awarded in five grades.
The first grade is awarded for 23 years of service and is signified by five palm leaf ribbon devices.
The second grade is awarded for 18 years of service and is signified by four palm leaf ribbon devices.
The third grade is awarded for 13 years of service and is signified by three palm leaf ribbon devices.
The fourth grade is awarded for 8 years of service and is signified by two palm leaf ribbon devices.
The fifth grade is awarded for 3 years of service and is signified by the one palm leaf ribbon devices.