The United States Humanitarian Service Medal was established by President Gerald Ford in 1977. It is to be awarded to active service personal that distinguish themselves by meritous participation in any significant military operation of a humanitarian nature subsequent to April 1, 1975. This includes members of the National Guard on active duty and service as a cadet at the US Military Academy.

The medal was designed by Mr. Jay Morris at the Institute of Heraldry and is struck in bronze. An outstretched hand with palm up appears on the the obverse as the international symbol for assistance and aid. The oak sprig on the reverse is symbolic of strength given through a selfless mission to aid mankind.

A miniature version also exists for formal dress wear. A bronze star is worn on the ribbon to indicate each subsequent award of this medal.