The decoration is awarded to any member or contributor to the National Intelligence Community, either civilian or military, who distinguishes themselves by meritorious actions to the betterment of national security in the United States of America, through sustained and selfless service of the highest order.

[3] An update to the NIA program added awards and changed precedence, with the NIDSM being succeeded by the Intelligence Community Medal for Valor in the order of precedence.

The obverse design consists of a white 16 pointed star surmounted by a gold heraldic rose.

The ribbon is white with 1⁄8 inch (3.2 mm) blue stripes at both edges.

Blue represents loyalty, and is taken from the seal of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.