Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal
The Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal ( CGDSM ) is a military decoration of the United States Coast Guard that was established 4 August 1949 and is presented to coast guardsmen for "Exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility . " Prior to this date , members of the Coast Guard were eligible to receive the Navy Distinguished Service Medal . 
<triplet> Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal <subj> 4 August 1949 <obj> inception