How to Write
the Meritorious Service Medal
Citation

The citation is the text that will be read during the presentation of the award. The text is limited to 1350 characters. Below is guidance for writing the Meritorious Service Medal citation. Reference: DAFMAN 36-2806, Military Awards

General Instructions:

Prepare citations on 8-1/2 by 11 inch plain bond paper (portrait orientation).

Use Courier New at 11 font size.

Use the mandatory opening and closing sentences listed below.

Final text must be perfect with no corrections.

Citations must capture the substance of the decoration with dignity and clarity.

The narrative is a short description of the act, achievement, or service. The narrative must contain at least one complete sentence describing the act, achievement, or service. Be specific on facts and emphasize the individual's mission contribution.

All numbers, one through nine, should be spelled out, but if there is space limitation, are not required to be spelled out. Numbers above nine are not required to be spelled out.

The use of common exercise or code names (such as RED FLAG, Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, etc.) is acceptable in citations. Do not use any abbreviations other than Jr., Sr., II, III, following the member's name. Only authorized abbreviations and acronyms on the approved DAF abbreviations and acronyms listing may be used.

For compound grade titles, such as Master Sergeant and Staff Sergeant, spell out the complete grade title in the opening sentence and then use the short title (Sergeant) in the remainder of the citation.

Do not separate the rank from the name. They should be always listed together.

Opening Sentence:

Use one of the two Opening Sentence formats shown below. An award for a period of service (PCS, etc) should use format 1. An award for a specific achievement should use format 2.

(1)  Master Sergeant Joe B. Smith distinguished himself in the performance of outstanding service to the United States as (duty title)   OR   (while assigned to the (office or unit) from _________to___________).

OR

(2)  Master Sergeant Joe B. Smith distinguished himself by outstanding achievement as (duty title)  OR   (while assigned to the (office or unit),   (on ___________)  OR   (from ________to________).

Narrative Description:

Use one of the two Narrative formats shown below. An award for a period of service (PCS, etc) should use format 1. An award for a specific achievement should use format 2.

(1)   During this period, the outstanding professional skill, leadership, and ceaseless efforts of Sergeant Smith resulted in major contributions to the effectiveness and success of Air Force (programs). Add a couple of sentences here that describe the problems resolved or calamity prevented.

OR

(2)   In this important assignment, Sergeant Smith’s outstanding leadership and devotion to duty were instrumental factors in the resolution of many problems of major importance to the Air Force. Add a couple of sentences here that describe the problems resolved or calamity prevented.

Closing Sentence:

Use the top/standard Closing Sentence format shown below for all purposes except for Retirement, Separation, or Posthumous award. In those cases, use the formats below.

(Standard)   The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Smith reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

OR

Retirement Award. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Smith culminate a (long and) distinguished career in the service of his country and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

OR

Separation Award. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Smith while serving his country reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

OR

Posthumous Award. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Smith in the dedication of his service to his country reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.