(a) The Adjutant General, on behalf of the Governor, may present, in the name of the State, a Conspicuous Service Cross to any person serving in the National Guard of the State who shall have distinguished himself or herself in any capacity as provided in this section.
(b) The Conspicuous Service Cross shall be a bronze Maltese Cross, 1 inch long, with the coat of arms of the State in miniature in the center thereof and the words “For Conspicuous Service” inscribed on the arms of the cross. The reverse shall be plain. The cross shall be suspended by a ribbon 13/8 inches in width and 13/4 inches in length of maroon with a 1/2 inch band of beige in the center.
(c) The Conspicuous Service Cross may be awarded for heroism, meritorious service and outstanding achievement.
(1) A recommendation based on heroism must clearly characterize valor, bravery or outstanding courage. The act may be a single event or a closely related series of actions performed over a short period of time.
(2) A recommendation based on meritorious service recognizes praiseworthy execution of duties over a period of time. Service differs from achievement in that service concerns a period of time versus an act and is usually based on a permanent change of assignment, a completed period of service, or a retirement. The service must clearly distinguish the member from others of comparable grade and time of service.
(3) A recommendation based on outstanding achievement recognizes a single, specific act or accomplishment separate and distinct from regularly assigned duties which impacts the greater good of the State and its inhabitants. An outstanding achievement award covers a short period of time with definite beginning and ending dates.
(d) This medal shall be awarded upon the recommendation of a board of 3 officers and 2 enlisted members as appointed by the Adjutant General.
(e) Only 1 medal may be awarded to any 1 person. For each additional award, a gold star 3/1 6 of an inch in diameter shall be given to the one who has earned the medal, which shall be affixed to the ribbon of the medal.