The Navy Distinguished Service Medal Once the Navy's second highest award, this medal was authorized by Congress on February 4, 1919 and was awarded to any person who while serving in any capacity with the U.S. Navy, distinguished himself by "exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility", after April 6, 1917. The Distinguished Service Medal was designed by Paul Manship and was awarded for combat or noncombat service. An earlier design, featuring an anchor with a setting sun in the background, and suspended by an eagle and a scroll with the dates: "1917-1918", was sometimes worn, but was never authorized for award. In 1942, The Navy Cross was given precedence over this medal.