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1989.1112.10; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
1989.1112.10; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
National Defense Service Medal
1989.1112.10; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
1989.1112.10; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum

National Defense Service Medal

Artifact ID1989.1112.10
Object Type Medal
Gifter
Designer
Date before 1975
Medium metal, ribbon
DimensionsOverall H 2 3/4 in x W 1 1/2 in (7 cm x 3.8 cm )
Physical DescriptionA round bronze medal features an eagle with outstretched wings. Curvy text is above it. The medal is suspended from a round metal loop that hangs from a vertically-striped red, white, blue, and yellow ribbon. A bronze oak leaf is pinned to the ribbon's center.
Historical NoteAllen D. Davis earned this medal and other awards and materials during his long military service, which spanned World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He returned the materials to President Gerald R. Ford in an act of political protest following Ford's decision to grant clemency to draft evaders. He also included a letter to President Ford in which he explained his decision to return his materials.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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