10 U.S.C. § 313 — Bilateral or regional cooperation programs: awards and mementos to recognize superior noncombat achievements or performance

(a) General Authority. The Secretary of Defense may present awards and mementos, bought with money appropriated to run the armed forces, to recognize outstanding noncombat achievements or performance by members of friendly foreign forces and other foreign nationals whose work meaningfully supports or enhances the National Security Strategy of the United States. (b) Activities That May Be Recognized. This covers achievement or performance that: (1) plays a crucial role in shaping the international security environment in ways that protect and promote U.S. interests; (2) supports or enhances U.S. overseas presence and peacetime engagement activities, including defense cooperation initiatives, security assistance training and programs, and joint training and exercises with the armed forces; (3) helps deter aggression and coercion, build coalitions, and promote regional stability; or (4) serves as a role model for proper conduct by military forces in emerging democracies. (c) Limitation. Spending to buy or produce mementos awarded under this section can't exceed the "minimal value" gift limit in effect under title 5, section 7342(a)(5).