Obverse:  An American bald eagle with displayed wings in the center of a 1-1/4 inch gilt bronze medallion.  The eagle holds an olive branch in its right talon and arrows in its left talon.  The eagle is surrounded by a blue enameled ring inscribed UNITED STATES OF AMERICA at top and NAVY at the bottom.  Surrounding the blue enamel ring is a gold border of scroll waves moving in a clockwise direction.  The medal is surmounted by a white five-pointed star, point up, tipped with gold balls.  In the center of the star is a gold anchor with gold rays radiating between the arms of the star.  

Reverse:  The reverse of the medal depicts a trident surrounded by a laurel wreath.  The wreath is surrounded by a blue enamel ring inscribed FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE.