Department of Defense Civilian Service Medal
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Global War on Terrorism Civilian Service Medal


Purpose
The Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) Medal is established to recognize the contributions and accomplishments of the civilian workforce of the Department of Defense in direct support of the armed forces, whose members are engaged in operations to combat terrorism in all forms throughout the world.

Description

Obverse: On a bronze disc 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in diameter, a representation of the statue of freedom, from the apex of the Capitol, within a triangle bordered with three spears; on either side an arced branch of laurel and in base five stars.

Reverse: A polestar upon a disc emitting four arrowheads saltirewise, within the inscription GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM below and CIVILIAN SUPPORT above.

Ribbon:  The medal is suspended from a ribbon 1 3/8 inches in width consisting of the following stripes:  1/8 Bluebird, 1/16 Old Glory Blue, 1/16 White, 1/16 Scarlet, 1/16 Bluebird, 3/16 Black, 1/16 Scarlet, 1/8 Golden Yellow, 1/16 Scarlet, 3/16 Black, 1/16 Bluebird, 1/16 Scarlet, 1/16 White, 1/16 Old Glory Blue, 1/8 Bluebird.


Symbolism

Obverse:  The statue of freedom represents the ultimate goal of operations in support of the Global War on Terrorism. The laurel branches symbolize honor and achievement. The five stars allude to the military services, and the triangle, which is the traditional symbol of civilian service, denotes support. The spears enclose and defend Freedom and allude to support for military service.

Reverse:  The disc represents a globe, with arrowheads suggesting that danger and terrorism may develop anywhere. The polestar is an ancient symbol of navigation denoting direction, preparation and planning.

Ribbon:  Medium blue is the color associated with the Department of Defense. Gold represents excellence and achievement. Black and red symbolize the threat and danger of terrorism. Red, white and blue, our national colors, are for patriotism and the love of freedom.


Eligibility and Criteria
See Army Regulation 672-20, Incentive Awards.

Background
The medal was established by The Secretary of Defense to recognize the contributions and accomplishments of civilian employees of the Department of Defense in direct support of the armed forces engaged in operations to combat terrorism.  Civilian employees, who on or after 11 September 2001, participate abroad in an operation that directly supports a United States military GWOT operation in a designated geographic location, may be eligible to receive the medal.





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