The NATO Meritorious Service Medal was first awarded in 2003 to commend
NATO staff whose personal initiative and dedication went beyond their duty
to make a difference both to their colleagues, and to NATO as an
organization. The Medal is the personal Award of The Secretary General of
NATO, who signs each citation. Less than 50 medals are awarded each year and it remains the only significant award for individual personal effort for
NATO staff; and can be awarded to Military and Civilian staff alike. When
assessing nominations for the award, there are several criteria taken into
consideration: the performance of acts of courage in difficult or dangerous
circumstances; showing exceptional leadership or personal example; making
an outstanding individual contribution to a NATO sponsored program or
activity; or enduring particular hardship or deprivation in the interest of
NATO.