History

The Meritorious Service Medal for Personnel of the Belgian Defence Forces and Foreign Armed Forces was established by Royal Decree on February 25, 2005. It is awarded to military personnel of the Belgian Armed Forces and civilian employees of the Belgian Ministry of Defence for meritorious service or an act of distinction. It may also be awarded to foreign civilians and military personnel in recognition of support of the Belgian Armed Forces and the Belgian Ministry of Defence.

It was known as the Medal of Military Merit prior to February 25, 2005, when it was awarded internally by the Ministry of Defence. It is now awarded by the King on the recommendation of the Director of Human Resources of the Belgian Ministry of Defence.