Harry Truman: “They came in here this morning.”

The people of the United States have a very great asset in this force.

There is hereby established a medal to be known as the National Security Medal with accompanying ribbons and appurtenances.

It is my fervent hope as I leave the Office of the Presidency that recent reckless attacks which can destroy that great asset will subside and that we will continue to go forward in creating a skilled corps of men and women with a public…

The National Security Medal may be awarded to any person, without regard to nationality, including members of the armed forces of the United States, for distinguished achievement or outstanding contribution on or after July 26, 1947, in…