Vishisht Seva Medal (or VSM) is a decoration of the Indian Armed forces. It is awarded to recognize "distinguished service of an exceptional order" to all ranks of the Indian armed forces. The award may be granted posthumously and subsequent awards are represented by a bar worn on the ribbon. The award carries with it the right to use "VSM" as post-nominal letters. The medal was originally established as the "Vishisht Seva Medal, Class III". It was renamed to its present name on 27 January 1967. The design of the medal remained unchanged and the change be reflected only in the records.