Joint Service Achievement Medal M0170

Joint Service Achievement Medal M0170. The Joint Service Achievement Medal (JSAM) is a decoration presented by the United States Secretary of Defense to officers below the grade of O-6 and enlisted members below the grade of E-7 who, while serving in a joint military command or activity, have performed either an exceptional achievement or commendable service that has not been recognized by a Commendation Medal. Subsequent awards are denoted by Oak Leaf Clusters worn on the service medal. Service: All Services. Criteria: Meritorious service or achievement while serving with a Joint ActivityDevices: Bronze, Silver Oak Leaf ClusterThe medal was established in 1983 specifically to complete the Department of Defense awards hierarchy and thereby provide a system of decorations for meritorious achievement comparable to those of the separate services. In so doing, the integrity of the more senior Joint Service medals was protected and the opportunity to earn recognition while assigned to a Joint Activity was provided. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement while serving in a Joint Activity after August 3, 1983 to military personnel below the rank of colonel. s.