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1989.1094.1 a-b; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
1989.1094.1 a-b; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
Distinguished Service Cross Medal
1989.1094.1 a-b; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
1989.1094.1 a-b; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum

Distinguished Service Cross Medal

Artifact ID1989.1094.1 a-b
Object Type Medal
Gifter
Designer
Maker
Date before 1974
Medium metal, ribbon
DimensionsOverall (Medal) H 3 1/4 in x W 1 1/4 in (8.3 cm x 3.2 cm )
 Overall (Case) H 7 in x W 4 1/4 in x D 1 1/4 in (17.8 cm x 10.8 cm x 3.2 cm )
Physical Description(a) A decorative bronze cross features a raised eagle with outstretched wings in the center. Below it, a scroll displays a line of horizontal engraved text. The medal is suspended from a round metal loop that hangs from a vertically-striped red, white, and blue ribbon.

(b) Golden borders decorate the edges of a black box. The interior of the lid and the bottom portion are lined with golden fabric.
Historical NoteJohn K. McDermott earned this Distinguished Service Cross during his military service. He returned the medal to President Gerald R. Ford in an act of political protest following Ford's decision to grant clemency to draft evaders.Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThe item was a gift from the general public to President Ford during his term in office. It was received through the Executive Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in September, 1981 for deposit with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.
National Archives Catalog CollectionGerald R. Ford Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 620931)
National Archives Catalog SeriesPublic Gifts Given to President Gerald R. Ford (74639696)
Use Restriction Status Unrestricted
Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
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