"[1][2] Prior to this date, members of the Coast Guard were eligible to receive the Navy Distinguished Service Medal.

The medal may also be awarded to members of the uniformed services of the United States who distinguish themselves while working with the U.S. Coast Guard.

The exceptional performance of duty must be clearly above what is normally expected and must have contributed materially to the success of a major command or project.

The decoration is typically awarded to senior flag officers, such as the commandant of the Coast Guard.

[3] The bestowing authority of the Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal is the secretary of homeland security.