2011 U.S. Code
Title 22 - Foreign Relations and Intercourse
Chapter 52 - FOREIGN SERVICE (§§ 3901 - 4226)
Subchapter VI - PROMOTION AND RETENTION (§§ 4001 - 4013)
Section 4013 - Foreign Service awards

The President shall establish a system of awards to confer appropriate recognition of outstanding contributions to the Nation by members of the Service. The awards system established under this section shall provide for presentation by the President and by the Secretary of medals or other suitable commendations for performance in the course of or beyond the call of duty which involves distinguished, meritorious service to the Nation, including extraordinary valor in the face of danger to life or health. Distinguished, meritorious service in the promotion of internationally recognized human rights, including the right to freedom of religion, shall serve as a basis for granting awards under this section.

(Pub. L. 96–465, title I, §614, formerly §613, Oct. 17, 1980, 94 Stat. 2099; renumbered §614, Pub. L. 103–236, title I, §181(a)(1), Apr. 30, 1994, 108 Stat. 416; amended Pub. L. 105–292, title V, §504(b), Oct. 27, 1998, 112 Stat. 2811.)

1998—Pub. L. 105–292 inserted at end “Distinguished, meritorious service in the promotion of internationally recognized human rights, including the right to freedom of religion, shall serve as a basis for granting awards under this section.”

Functions of President under this section delegated to Secretary of State, see section 1 of Ex. Ord. No. 12293, Feb. 23, 1981, 46 F.R. 13969, set out under section 3901 of this title.