The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States other than General Officers who, while serving in any capacity with the Army after 6 December 1941, distinguished himself by meritorious achievement or meritorious service.

Award may be made to a member of the Armed Forces of a friendly foreign nation who, after 1 June 1962, distinguishes himself by an act of, extraordinary achievement, or meritorious service which has been of mutual benefit to a friendly nation and the United States.