[6] To justify this decoration, exceptional performance of duty must be clearly above that normally expected, and contributes to the success of a major command or project.

In rare instances, it has also been awarded to Navy captains and Marine Corps colonels, typically those in positions of significant responsibility in direct support of senior flag and general officers, and then only by exception (usually at retirement).

The Navy Distinguished Service Medal is a gilt bronze medallion 1.25 inches (32 mm) in diameter.

The eagle is surrounded by a blue enameled ring with the words, • UNITED • STATES • OF • AMERICA • at the top and • NAVY • at the bottom.

Surrounding the blue enamel ring is a gold border of scroll waves depicted moving in a clockwise direction.