The red stripes commemorate valor and sacrifice. Ribbon: Red, white, and blue are our National colors. The laurel is emblematic of honor and high achievement. Medal: The eagle and shield exemplify the principles of freedom and the defense of these freedoms on which our country is founded. Description: The Army’s Institute of Heraldry developed the medal. The medal symbolizes the extraordinary fidelity and essential service of the Department’s civilian workforce who are an integral part of DoD and who contribute to the preservation of national security.Ģ. Purpose: The Secretary of Defense Medal for the Defense of Freedom (DFM) is established to acknowledge civilian employees of the Department of Defense (DoD) who are killed or wounded in the line of duty. Defense of Freedom Medal for Civilian Contractorsġ.
