Receiving the CDS commendation, or the CLS commendation, is darn difficult. There has to be some hard work done by a lot of people to get someone recognized, believe me. I went through the hoops trying to get one given out to one of my guys.
I know that it's somewhat easier getting a commanders commendation, or an area commanders commendation for that matter, but the soldiers that receive any of these commendations certainly deserve it! It's a great way to identify soldiers who go way out of there way to bring public attention to the military (in a good way, I mean), or do outstanding work that raises the bar for their peers.
Besides, it comes with a real nice write-up, and looks good on the "I loved my time in the service" wall where we hang all the junk after we retire.............