[Bringbackthedraft]

In 1971-2?? Nixon awarded the Reserves and National Guard the NDM for participation in the Great “U.S.A. Mail War”. He also gave them a year off of their service. (Hence, the missing days of GWB??) The NDM and GCM should have remained as full time active duty awards. There is no need for a cold war medal, the NDM is the Cold War medal.

[68stanger]

Qualifications for NDSM

http://www.officialmilitaryribbons.com/military_ribbon_info/usmc_military_ribbons/national_defense_service_military_ribbon.html

[OldGoatCPO]

We do need a Cold War medal because that war lasted from 1947-1991. Huge gaps in the awarding of the NDSM occurred during those 43 years. Most people were POGs. They spent years serving their country with no recognition for there Cold War service. A USAF Security Cop walking a flight line in Alaska below zero, protecting fully loaded Nuke Bombers, Sailor’s repairing a subs hull, Soldiers stocking supplies to support their troopers, they all served. Those who served with honor should have their service honored. The real reason Congress did not approve an award was the cost. They issued a paper certificate to save money.