History

The United States Public Health Service Commendation Medal was established by the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps in 1958. The Bronze Medal is awarded to any Public Health Service officer in recognition of proficient and dedicated service to the Public Health Service that goes beyond the normal expectation of duties. The award also recognizes sustained high-quality service in scientific, administrative and other professional and technical fields, as well as the application of a unique skill or creative imagination to the solution of problems.

A gold star is authorized for wear on the ribbon to denote subsequent awards of the Medal. A silver star may be worn on the ribbon in lieu of 5 gold stars.

There are 2 versions of the Medal which vary by reverse design. Early versions of the Medal feature the inscription "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH EDUCATION AND WELFARE" on the reverse, while later versions of the Medal feature a blank reverse.

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