The Rhode Island star may be awarded, in the name of the governor, to each person who, while a commissioned officer, warrant officer, or enlisted person of the armed forces of the United States, including the reserve components thereof, or of the Rhode Island national guard, while on active state or federal service, distinguishes himself or herself conspicuously by exceptionally meritorious service to the state or federal government in a duty of responsibility. No more than one Rhode Island star shall be awarded to any one person, but for each succeeding service, sufficient to justify the award of a Rhode Island star, a bronze oak leaf cluster shall be awarded in lieu thereof.