The Imperial Valorous Services Medal represented a form of recognition from the Imperial government. It was bestowed upon those who had accomplished hazardous missions for the Empire, demonstrating extraordinary courage when confronted with significant threats.
An instance of this award occurred in 1 ABY when a spacer, together with various Imperial loyalists, received the medal for their role in rescuing Doctor Bledsoe. This rescue took place during an attack on a Rebel Corellian corvette where Bledsoe was being held.
A comparable honor existed within the Rebel Alliance, known as the Alliance Valorous Services Medal.