Heraldry Multi



Campaign and Service Medals
Prisoner of War Medal


Description

On a Bronze medal, 1 3/8 inches in diameter, an eagle with wings opened surrounded by a circle of barbed wire and bayonet points. The reverse has the inscription "AWARDED TO" around the top and "FOR HONORABLE SERVICE WHILE A PRISONER OF WAR" across the center in three lines with a space between the two inscriptions for engraving the name of the recipient. The shield of the Coat of Arms of the United States is centered on the lower part of the reverse side with the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" around the bottom of the medal.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/16 inch Old Glory Red 67156; 3/32 inch White 67101; 1/16 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/8 inch White; center 11/16 inch Black 67138; 1/8 inch White; 1/16 inch Old Glory Blue; 3/32 inch White; and 1/16 inch Old Glory Red.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are components of the Prisoner of War Medal:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-M-3946/53. NSN 8455-01-251-2096 for set which includes regular size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/241. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/319. Available commercially.

d. Lapel Button: MIL-DTL-11484/152. Available commercially.


Background

a. Public Law 99-145, Department of Defense Authorization Act, dated 8 November 1985, amended Chapter 57 of Title 10, USC, 1128, to require under certain circumstances the issuance of a Prisoner of War Medal to any person who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States, was taken prisoner and held captive after 5 April 1917.

b. As a result of the above law, DOD solicited designs from all sources, and on 29 November 1985, designated The Institute of Heraldry (TIOH) as the Executive Agency for designing and procuring the medal. Over 300 designs were received and referred to a committee, comprised of representatives of the Armed Services, for advising the Secretary of Defense on a selection.

c. The design selected was created by Mr. Jay C. Morris of The Institute of Heraldry. The symbolism of the design is as follows: The eagle, a symbol of the United States and the American spirit, though surrounded by barbed wire and bayonet points, stands with pride and dignity, continually on the alert for the opportunity to seize hold of beloved freedom, thus symbolizing the hope that upholds the spirit of the prisoner of war. The ribbon colors red, white, and blue are symbolic of our National colors while determination to survive in or to escape from a hostile environment.

d. Order of precedence and wear policy for medals awarded to Army personnel is contained in AR 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority and supply of medals is contained in AR 600-8-22.





Air Force Combat Readiness Medal


Description

Obverse:  The obverse design has an inverted triangle on top of a delta-swept wing-like object, both representing supersonic aircraft.  This design is enclosed by a stylized compass rose with triangles at the points indicating the worldwide nature of the Air Force mission.

Reverse:  The reverse of the medal has the inscription, "FOR COMBAT READINESS--AIR FORCE," in a circle, near the outer edge of the medal.


Ribbon
The ribbon has a wide 1/2-inch center stripe of old glory red, flanked on either side by a narrow stripe of light blue, thin stripe of dark blue, narrow stripe of light blue with a stripe of old glory red at the edges.

Criteria
See AFI36-2803 (Air Force Military Awards and Decorations Program).

Background
This medal was authorized by the Secretary of the Air Force on March 9, 1964 and amended August 28, 1967.  Originally created as a personal decoration ranking above the commendation medals, lifesaving medals and the Purple Heart, its current status has been changed to an achievement/service medal.  The Combat Readiness Medal is awarded to members of the U.S. Air Force and Air Force Reserve for sustained individual combat or mission readiness or preparedness for direct weapon-system employment.




Army Good Conduct Medal


Description

A Bronze medal, 1 1/4 inches in diameter, with an eagle, wings spread, standing on a closed book and sword, encircled by the words "EFFICIENCY HONOR FIDELITY". On the reverse is a five-pointed star and a scroll between the words "FOR GOOD" and "CONDUCT", surrounded by a wreath formed by a laurel branch on the left and an oak branch on the right. Clasps are placed on the ribbon to represent subsequent awards.


Ribbon

A 1 3/8 inches ribbon consisting of the following stripes: 1/16 inch Soldier Red 67157; 1/16 inch White 67101; 1/16 inch Soldier Red; 1/16 inch White; 1/16 inch Soldier Red; 1/16 inch White; center 5/8 inch Soldier Red; 1/16 inch White; 1/16 inch Soldier Red; 1/16 inch White; 1/16 inch Soldier Red; 1/16 inch White; and 1/16 inch Soldier Red.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/191. NSN 8455-00-269-5761 for set which includes regular size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/191. Commercially available from certified manufacturers.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/68. NSN 8455-00-257-0571. Commercially available from certified manufacturers.

d. Lapel Button (metal replica of ribbon): MIL-DTL-11484/48. Commercially available from certified manufacturers.


Background

a. The Good Conduct Medal was established by Executive Order 8809, dated 28 June 1941, and authorized the award for soldiers completing three years active service after that date. The criteria was amended by Executive Order 9323, dated 31 March 1943, to authorize award for three years service after 7 December 1941 or one year service while the United States is at war. Executive Order 10444, dated 10 April 1953, revised the criteria to authorize award for three years service after 27 August 1940; one year service after 7 December 1941 while the United States is at war; and award for the first award for service after 27 June 1950 upon termination of service, for periods less than three years, but more than one year.

b. The medal was designed by Mr. Joseph Kiselewski and approved by the Secretary of War on 30 October 1942. The eagle, with wings spread, denotes vigilance and superiority. The horizontal sword denotes loyalty, and the book represents knowledge acquired and ability gained. On the reverse, the lone star denotes merit. The wreath of laurel and oak leaves denotes reward and strength.

c. The second and subsequent awards are indicated by the wear of the clasp with loop on the ribbon. Bronze clasps indicate the second (two loops) through fifth award (five loops); silver clasps indicate sixth (one loop) through tenth award (five loops); and gold clasps indicate eleventh (one loop) through the fifteenth award (5 loops).





Navy Good Conduct Medal


Description

Obverse:  In the center of a bronze medallion, 1-1/4 inches in diameter, a sailing ship (the USS Constitution) in full rigging is shown sailing to the right.  Beneath the ship is the word "CONSTITUTION."  The ship and inscription are contained within a circle of rope tied at the base.  The scene is superimposed over an anchor, with its stock appearing above and its flukes, below.  The anchor's chain forms a circle between the rope and the edge of the medal.  Within the circles formed by the rope and chain are the words "UNITED" (on the left) "STATES" (on the right) and "NAVY" (across the lower part of the anchor).

Reverse:  The center of the reverse is left blank for engraving the recipient's name.  The word "FIDELITY" appears on the inside contour on the left; the word "OBEDIENCE" on the right, and "ZEAL" at the base.


Ribbon
The ribbon is one solid colorrally red.

Criteria
See SECNAV INSTRUCTION 1650.1H (Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual).

Background
The Navy Good Conduct Medal was established on April 26, 1869, by Secretary of the Navy A.E. Borie.  It was initially awarded to Navy enlisted men who completed a second (or subsequent) enlistment of three years of continuous service, obtained a general average of 4.5 on their Conduct Records, and who were recommended by their commanding officer.  In time, the Good Conduct Medal came to be awarded for the honorable completion of a fixed term of service.




Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal


Description

Obverse:  In the center of a bronze medallion 1-1/4 inches in diameter, a Marine gunner is depicted serving a naval gun.  This scene is encircled within a rope, and beneath it is a scroll bearing the motto "SEMPER FIDELIS" (Always Faithful). Encircling the rope are the words "UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS."  The whole scene rests upon a fouled anchor with its crown titled to the right.  The encircling anchor chain is within the raised rim of the medal.  The medal is suspended from a bot action rifle.

Reverse:  In the center of a bronze medallion, there is a blank space for engraving of the recipient's name.  Around the inside rim of the medal, the words "FIDELITY" (on the left); "OBEDIENCE" (on the right); and "ZEAL" (at the bottom).
 


Ribbon
The ribbon consists of a field of soldier red bisected by a -inch stripe of dark blue.  The dark red is taken from the Navy Good Conduct Medal and the blue central stripe, which represents the Marine Corps, is added to distinguish the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal from the Navy Good Conduct Medal.

Criteria
See SECNAVIST M1650.1H (Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual).

Background
The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal was established by Secretary of the Navy H.S. Herbert and has been awarded for qualifying service from July 20, 1896 to the present.  It is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service ih the U.S. Marine Corps while on active duty for a specified period of time.




Air Force Good Conduct Medal


Description

Obverse:  On the obverse is an American eagle with wings displayed and inverted, standing on a closed book and a Roman sword.  Encircling this are the words “EFFICIENCY HONOR FIDELITY” at the medal’s outer edge.
 
Reverse:  The reverse has a five-pointed star above a blank scroll suitable for engraving the recipient’s name.  Above the star are the words, “FOR GOOD” and below the scroll “CONDUCT.”  It is encircled by a wreath of laurel and oak leaves.
 


Ribbon
The ribbon is predominantly light blue with a thin stripe of dark blue, thin stripe of white, thin stripe of red and a thin stripe of light blue at the edge.

Criteria
See AFI36-2803 (Air Force Military Awards and Decorations Program).

Background
The Air Force Good Conduct Medal was authorized by Congress on July 6, 1960.  However, it was not created until June 1, 1963 when the Secretary of the Air Force established it.  The medal was designed by Joseph Kiselewski.  The medal is awarded to Air Force enlisted during a three-year period of active military service or for a one-year period of service during wartime.  Airmen awarded this medal must have had character and efficiency ratings of excellent or higher and must not have been convicted by court-martial throughout the qualifying period.




Space Force Good Conduct Medal


Description

Obverse. A Bronze medal, 1-¼ inches in diameter, consisting of a grid-lined globe surmounted by a delta, both encircled by an orbit ring, all beneath a Northern star in the upper left portion and above the Roman numeral “MMXIX” arching below. Arching above is the inscription “UNITED STATES SPACE FORCE” and below “SEMPER SUPRA” in raised letters.

Reverse. On the reverse the words “EFFICIENCY, HONOR” arching above and “FIDELTY” below upon a bordered designation band in raised letters. On the upper portion of the engraving disc the stacked inscription, “FOR GOOD CONDUCT” in raised letters.

Ribbon. The overall ribbon is Silver with the following centered upon: bold Black and Cobalt Blue stripes, between two narrow Bluebird stripes a single Forget-Me-Not stripe of the same size, and finally two bold Cobalt Blue and Black stripes.


Symbolism

Medal. The Globe represents the terrestrial home of the U.S. Space Force and its support to the joint warfighters. The Delta Wing evokes historic ties to the earliest days of the U.S. Air Force space community and symbolizes change and innovation. It also represents all variations of space vehicles that support our National Defense and National Security Space Strategies. The Elliptical Orbit signifies defense and protection from all adversaries and threats emanating from the space domain. It also represents ongoing interagency cooperation and allied partnerships. The Polaris symbolizes the guiding light of security and alludes to a constant presence and vigilance in space now and in the future. The wording on the reverse—EFFICIENCY, HONOR, FIDELITY—reflect the noble character of Space Force Guardians in the performance of their duties.

Ribbon. Silver and Black combine to represent the vastness of the space domain. Blue symbolizes the U.S. Air Force space community and the early beginnings of the United States Space Force. A single Forget-Me-Not stripe between two Bluebird stripes symbolizes the knowledge gained and ability achieved by Space Force Guardians.





Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal





Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal

Reverse - Army Reserve
Reverse - National Guard

Description

A Bronze medal, 1 ¼ inches in diameter, consisting of a faceted twelve-pointed star with a beveled edge, the points surmounting a wreath of laurel and bearing on a disc within a smaller wreath of laurel, a torch between two swords crossed saltirewise, points up and flanked by two mullets. The reverse has the cuirass from the Department of the Army seal centered below "ARMY NATIONAL GUARD" or "UNITED STATES ARMY RESERVE" and above "FOR ACHIEVEMENT".


Ribbon

A 1 3/8 inches wide ribbon consisting of the following stripes: 5/16 inch Old Gold 67105; 1/8 inch Ultramarine Blue 67118; 1/16 inch White 67101; center 3/8 inch Scarlet 67111; 1/16 inch White; 1/8 inch Ultramarine Blue; and 5/16 inch Old Gold.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components of the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/200. NSN 8455-00-464-2138 (National Guard) and 8455-00-464-2149 (Army Reserve) for set which includes full size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/200. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/196. NSN 8455-00-444-2171.

d. Lapel Button (metal replica of ribbon): MIL-DTL-11484/101. Available commercially.


Background

a. The Commanding General, U.S. Continental Army Command, recommended adoption of a medal for the Reserve Components that would be comparable to the Good Conduct Medal for the Active Army on 11 August 1969. The Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel, on 29 January 1970, requested The Institute of Heraldry (TIOH) provide proposed designs for consideration by the Secretary of the Army. Designs were submitted in May 1970 and the Secretary of the Army approved the award on 3 March 1971.

b. The star symbolizes achievement and its twelve points refer to measurement of time and to the sustained meritorious service. The inner disc represents a circle of perfection and bears the torch for guidance and the laurel for honor and glory. The two swords, one for active and one for reserve, attest to eternal readiness and the two stars symbolize equality of effort. The red, white and blue of the ribbon, our National colors, stand for patriotism. The gold symbolizes merit.

c. The Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal may be awarded to enlisted personnel and officers in the grade of Colonel or below. AGR soldiers and officers are not authorized the ARCAM. Subsequent awards are reflected by the attachment of an oak-leaf cluster to the ribbon.






Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal





Navy Expeditionary Medal


Description

Obverse:  In the center of a bronze medallion, 1-1/4 inches in diameter, a sailor is shown beaching a boat containing three men in uniform, one of whom is carrying a rifle.  At the rear of the boat is an American flag.  In the upper quarter of the medal, and following the contour of its rim, is the word "EXPEDITIONS."

Reverse:  In the center of a bronze medallion, an eagle is shown alight upon an anchor; the eagle is facing to the left, and the flukes of the anchor are to the right side of the medallion.  The eagle is grasping sprigs of laurel which extend beyond the anchor in both directions.  Above the eagle are the words "UNITED STATES NAVY."  Above the laurel on the left is the word "FOR," and over the laurel on the right is the word "SERVICE." 


Ribbon
The ribbon is 1-3/8 inches wide and consists of an ultramarine blue background with a wide star yellow stripe inside each edge.  These colors were selected because they are the colors of the U.S. Navy.

Criteria
See SECNAV INSTRUCTION 1650.1H (Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual).

Background
The Navy Expeditionary Medal was established by General Orders of the Department of the Navy on August 15, 1936.  It has been awarded retroactively for qualifying service from February 12, 1874.  The medal is awarded to Navy personnel who have landed on foreign territory and engaged in operations against armed opposition or who have operated under circumstances deemed to merit special recognition and for which no campaign medal has been awarded.  The Navy Expeditionary Medal is one of the few Navy awards which is not concurrently bestowed to the U.S. Marine Corps, as Marine Corps personnel are eligible for the Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal as an equivalent award.




Civil War Campaign Medal


Description

A Bronze medal, 1 1/4 inches in diameter, with the head of Lincoln, nearly in profile, facing sinister, surrounded by the words "WITH MALICE TOWARD NONE WITH CHARITY FOR ALL". On the reverse are the words "THE CIVIL WAR" and below this are the dates "1861-1865", surrounded by a wreath formed by a branch of oak on the left and a branch of olive on the right with the stems joined at the bottom by a conventional knot.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and equally divided with 11/16 inch Navy Blue #1 67179 and 11/16 inch Gray 67200.


Criteria
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Components

The following are authorized components and related items:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/190. Not currently available in the supply system.

b. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/25. Available commercially.

c. Streamer: MIL-DTL-11589/25 and MIL-DTL-14650.


Background

a. The concept of campaign medals for the Army was first approved by the Assistant Secretary of War and announced in General Orders 4, War Department, dated 11 January 1905 which states "by authority of the President, campaign badges with ribbons will be issued as articles of the uniform to officers and enlisted men in the service to commemorate services which have been or shall hereafter be rendered in campaigns". This order further states that "announcement will be made by the War Department designating campaigns for which will be issued and defining the conditions of the award". The subject of campaign medals was considered; however, the Judge Advocate General of the Army, in his opinion, concluded it was not proper to issue "medals" except by authority of Congress, but it was proper for the President to authorize the issue of "badges" as part of the uniform.

b. The first badges authorized under the above order were the Spanish Campaign Badge, Philippine Campaign Badge, and the China Campaign Badge by General Orders 5, War Department, dated 12 January 1905. General Orders 12, War Department, dated 21 January 1907 amended General Orders 5, 12 January 1905, to include authorization for the Civil War Campaign Badge and Indian Campaign Badge. The General Order also stated "Under existing law these badges can only be issued to persons who are now in the military service of the United States or who may enter the service hereafter. Eligibility was extended to those on the retired list by General Orders 129, War Department, dated 13 August 1908, and in case the retired member was deceased, claims by proper legal representatives of such personnel were honored.

c. The Civil War Campaign Badge was design by Mr. F. D. Millett, a prominent American Artist, and the Chief of Staff, U.S. Army, approved the design and authorized the manufacture of the badge in 1906. The initial contract with a commercial firm was canceled and the design turned over to the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia for manufacture. The initial ribbon design was two bands of red, white, and blue with the red on the outside and the blue bands separated by a thin white stripe in the center. The head of Lincoln was selected because it was the only thing that could be used on the medal without offense to the sentiment then happily prevailing over the whole country in regard to the Civil War. The portrait of Lincoln must be acceptable to everybody, particularly when accompanied by the noble phrase from his second inaugural address which so tersely and accurately expresses his attitude during the war. The ribbon was changed in 1913 to half blue (on the left) and half gray.

d. Because of the desire to provide the medal to individuals no longer in the service, Major General Leonard Wood, Chief of Staff, in a letter to the Director of the U.S. Mint on 30 June 1913 requested the U.S. Mint sell the campaign badges to persons who were no longer in the service.

e. AR 600-65, dated 20 November 1928, refers to the Civil War Campaign Medal rather than badge. Subsequent correspondence and regulations refer to medal rather than badge.

f. Section 33, Act of Congress, 10 August 1956, (10 USC 3751) requires the Secretary of the Army to procure and issue without charge, the Civil War Campaign Medal and other service medals. This law also provides that the medal will be presented to the member's family if the member dies before it is presented to him.

g. The streamers for display on the organizational flags will have the inscription as shown on the unit's lineage and honors. The 25 Civil War streamers displayed on the Army flag will have the inscriptions as shown in AR 840-10 and AR 600-8-22.





Indian Campaign Medal


Description

On a Bronze medal, 1 1/4 inches in diameter, a mounted Indian facing sinister, wearing a war bonnet, and carrying a spear in his right hand. Above the horseman are the words "INDIAN WARS" and below, on either side of a buffalo head, a conventional arrangement of arrowheads, completing a circle. The reverse is a spread eagle on a trophy consisting of a cannon, six rifles and four standards, an Indian shield, quiver of arrows and three spears, a Cuban machete and a Sulu kris. Below the trophy are the words "FOR SERVICE". The whole is surrounded by a circle composed of the words "UNITED STATES ARMY" in the upper half and thirteen stars in the lower half.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/4 inch Old Glory Red 67156; 3/16 in Black 67138; 1/2 inch Old Glory Red; 3/16 inch Black; and 1/4 inch Old Glory Red.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components and related items:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/192. No longer stocked.

b. Medal (miniature): MIL-DTL-3943/192. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/75. Available commercially.

d. Streamers for units receiving campaign credit - manual requisitions in accordance with AR 840-10.


Background

a. The Indian Campaign Medal was established by War Department General Orders 12 in 1907. It was created at the same time as the Civil War Campaign Medal.

b. The initial ribbon was all red; however, two black stripes were added in December 1917 because of the similarity to a ribbon used by the French for the French Legion of Honor.

c. Campaign streamers of the same design as the service ribbon are authorized for display by units receiving campaign credit participation for the Indian Wars. The inscriptions for streamers displayed on the organizational flag will be as indicated in the unit's lineage and honors. The inscriptions for the 14 streamers displayed on the Army flag are listed in AR 840-10 and AR 600-8-22.





Spanish Campaign Medal (Army)


Description

The Bronze medallion is 1 ¼ inches in diameter. It is oxidized, relieved and has a matte finish.

On the center is a castle with two small round towers at the corners. At the top around the outside edge of the medal is the inscription "WAR WITH SPAIN". At the bottom is the date "1898", to the left of the date is a branch of tobacco plant, and to the right, a stalk of sugar cane.

A spread eagle on a trophy consisting of a cannon, six rifles and four standards, an Indian shield, quiver of arrows and three spears, a Cuban machete and a Sulu kris. Below the trophy are the words "FOR SERVICE". The whole is surrounded by a circle composed of the words "UNITED STATES ARMY" in the upper half and thirteen stars in the lower half.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches in width. It is composed of the following vertical stripes: 1/8 inch Star Yellow 67145; 3/8 inch Ultramarine Blue 67118; 3/8 inch Star Yellow; 3/8 inch Ultramarine Blue; and 1/8 inch Star yellow. The ribbon's previous design had a wide stripe of yellow in the center; on each side, a stripe of red bordered by a narrow stripe of blue. This was discarded in 1913.

Streamer - The ribbon is 2 3/4 inches in width. It is composed of the following horizontal stripes: 1/4 inch Star Yellow 67145; 3/4 inch Ultramarine Blue 67118; 3/4 inch Star yellow; 3/4 inch Ultramarine Blue; and 1/4 inch Star Yellow.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

It was awarded by Congress to officers and enlisted personnel of the United States Army who served ashore on the island of Cuba between 11 May 1898 and 17 July 1898; in the island of Puerto Rico between 24 July 1898 and 13 August 1898; in the Philippine Islands between 30 June 1898 and 16 August 1898; or en route thereto on the high seas, during 1898.


Components

Army Medal: MIL-DTL-3943/197.

Army Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/138E.

Streamer: MIL-DTL-11589/138E.


Background

a. The medal was designed by Mr. Francis D. Millet and was authorized by Congress on 12 January 1905 and announced in War Department General Orders 5.

b. Organizations that received campaign participation credit for the Spanish American War may display the streamer on their organizational flag. The inscription will be as indicated on the organization's lineage and honors. The three designated campaigns during the Spanish-American War are displayed as streamers on the Army Flag. The inscriptions for the streamers displayed on the Army Flag are listed in AR 840-10 and AR 600-8-22.


Symbolism

The castle with two small round towers at the corners, is said to be a modification of the castle that appears on the Royal Arms of Spain, the round towers possibly referring to the two Morro Castles, at Havana and Santiago de Cuba.





Spanish War Service Medal


Description

The Bronze medallion is 1 3/8 inches in width. On the obverse is a Roman sword hanging on a tablet and is inscribed "FOR SERVICE IN THE SPANISH WAR". It is surrounded by a wreath, and the sword is sheathed to indicate National Guard Service in the Continental United States, not in combat. The reverse has the coat of arms of the United States over a scroll inscribed "FOR SERVICE" surrounded by a wreath with the insignia of the Infantry at left, Artillery at the bottom and Cavalry at right.

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches in width. It is composed of the following vertical stripes: 3/32 inch Emerald 67128; inch Golden Yellow 67104; 5/8 inch Emerald; 1/4 inch Golden Yellow; and 3/32 inch Emerald.


Criteria
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Components

Army Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/139E.


Background

The medal was established by an act of Congress on 9 July 1918 (40 Stat. 873). The obverse was designed by COL J.R. M. Taylor; the reverse was designed by Bailey, Banks and Biddle.


Symbolism

The form of the tablet resembles the one employed for the discharge certificates of Roman legionaries. These bronze or lead certificates were nailed up in the house of the recipients.





Army of Cuban Occupation Medal


Description

The Bronze medallion is 1 3/8 inches in width. On the obverse is the Coat of Arms of the Cuban Republic with wreath and fasces bearing the Cap of Liberty. Around the circumference are the words "ARMY OF OCCUPATION MILITARY GOVERNMENT OF CUBA" and the dates "1898" and "1902". The reverse consists of, a spread eagle on a trophy consisting of a cannon, six rifles and four standards, an Indian shield, quiver of arrows and three spears, a Cuban machete and Sulu kris. Below the trophy are the words "FOR SERVICE". The whole is surrounded by a circle composed of the words "UNITED STATES ARMY" in the upper half and thirteen stars in the lower half.

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches in width. It is composed of the following vertical stripes: 1/16 inch Ultramarine Blue 67118; 3/8 inch Old Glory Red 67156; 1/16 inch Golden Yellow 67104; 3/8 inch Ultramarine Blue; 1/16 inch Golden Yellow; 3/8 inch Old Glory Red; and 1/16 inch Ultramarine Blue.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

Regular Medal: MIL-DTL-3943/186.

Army Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/14.


Background
The medal was authorized by General Orders 40, dated June 1915.




Army of Puerto Rican Occupation Medal


Description

The Bronze medallion is 1 1/4 inches in diameter. It is oxidized, relieved and has a matte finish.

Centered is a castle with two small round towers at its corners. At top around the outside of the medal is the inscription "ARMY OF OCCUPATION OF PUERTO RICO". The date "1898" appears at the bottom. To the left of the date is a branch of tobacco plant, and to the right is a stalk of sugar cane.

A spread eagle on a trophy consisting of a cannon, six rifles and four standards, an Indian shield, quiver of arrows and three spears, a Cuban machete and Sulu kris. Below the trophy are the words "FOR SERVICE". The whole is surrounded by a circle composed of the words "UNITED STATES ARMY" in the upper half and thirteen stars in the lower half.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches in width. It is composed of the following vertical stripes: 1/16 inch Old Glory Red 67156; 3/8 inch Ultramarine Blue 67118; 1/16 inch Golden Yellow 67104; 3/8 inch Old Glory Red; 1/16 inch Golden Yellow; 3/8 inch Ultramarine Blue; and 1/16 inch Old Glory Red.


Criteria
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Components

Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/188.

Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/16.


Background

The medal was authorized by Compilation of Orders, Change No. 15, dated February 4, 1919, for officers and enlisted personnel of the United States Army for service in Puerto Rico from August 14, 1898 to December 10, 1898. It was designed by Mr. Francis D. Millett.


Symbolism

The castle with two small round towers at its corners, is said to be a modification of the castle that appears on the Royal Arms of Spain, the round towers possibly referring to the two Morro Castles, at Havana and Santiago de Cuba.





Philippine Campaign Medal


Description

A bronze medal, 1 1/4 inch in diameter, with an oxidized, relieved finish.

A palm tree bearing coconuts with a lamp in dexter and a scale in sinister. Around the border at the top is the inscription PHILIPPINE INSURRECTION and the date 1899 in base.

On the reverse is a trophy composed of an eagle perched on a cannon supported by crossed flags, rifles, an Indian shield, spear, quiver of arrows, a Cuban machete, and a Sulu Kris. Below the trophy are the words "FOR SERVICE". Around the border are the words "UNITED STATES ARMY" in the upper half and thirteen stars in the lower half.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following vertical stripes: 1/16 inch Ultramarine Blue, 5/16 inch Old Glory Red, 5/8 inch Ultramarine Blue, 5/16 inch Old Glory Red, and 1/16inch Ultramarine Blue.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

Medal. MIL-DTL-3943/195.

Ribbon. MIL-DTL-11589/138.

Streamer. Streamers are displayed on the organizational flag of units that received credit for participating in any of the campaigns. The inscription will be as indicated on the unit's lineage and honors.


Symbolism

The palm tree represents the tropical character of the Philippines. The lamp denotes enlightenment. The scales allude to justice and the bringing of enlightenment and just to the Philippines. The date indicates the year the Philippine Insurrection began.


Background

The Philippine Campaign Medal was established on January 12, 1905 by War Department General Order 5.

There are 11 campaign streamers displayed on the Army flag to represent service in the Philippines. The campaigns are:

  1. MANILA 1899
  2. ILOILO 1899
  3. MALOLOS 1899
  4. LAGUNA DE BAY 1899
  5. SAN ISIDRO 1899
  6. ZAPOTE RIVER 1899
  7. CAVITE 1899-1900
  8. TARLAC 1899
  9. SAN FABIAN 1899
  10. MINDANAO1902-1905
  11. JOLO 1905, 1906, 1913




Philippine Congressional Medal


Description

The bronze medal is 1 1/4 inches in diameter with an oxidized and relieved finish.

In the center of the medal, a military formation composed of a color bearer holding the United States flag accompanied by two soldiers with rifles on their shoulders, all three facing the viewer's left. Around the border on the sides are the words PHILIPPINE INSURRECTION. In the exergue, the date 1899.

Within a wreath composed of pine on the left and palm on the right and tied at its base with a bow is the inscription FOR PATRIOTISM FORTITUDE AND LOYALTY on five lines.

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and is composed of the following vertical stripes: 1/16th inch Ultramarine Blue, 1/16th inch White, 1/8th inch Old Glory Red, 1/8 inch White, 5/8 inch Ultramarine Blue, 1/8 inch White, 1/8 inch Old Glory Red, 1/16th inch White and 1/16th Ultramarine Blue.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/118.

Medal: MIL-DTL-3943/196.


Background

The Philippine Congressional Medal was established by Act of Congress (Public Law 360, 59th Congress) on June 29, 1906 and implemented by War Department General Order 124 dated July 9, 1906.

The medal was established by Congress to be given to soldiers "who followed the flag" in the Philippine Islands. Accordingly, the design included a color guard bearing the American flag. The wreath on the reverse alludes to the Philippines (palm) and to goals of autonomy and self-determination (pine). The colors of the ribbon - red, white, and blue - represents the colors of the flag from both countries.





China Campaign Medal


Description

The medal is 1 1/4 inch in diameter with an oxidized, relieved finish.

On the obverse is the Imperial Chinese five-toed dragon with the inscription CHINA RELIEF EXPEDITION around the upper border and the dates 1900 - 1901 at the bottom.

On the reverse is a trophy composed of an eagle perched on a cannon supported by crossed flags, rifles, an Indian shield, spear and quiver of arrows, a Cuban machete, and a Sulu kris. Below the trophy are the words FOR SERVICE. Around the border at the top are the words UNITED STATES ARMY and around the bottom are thirteen stars.

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches in width and is composed of the following vertical stripes: 1/16 inch Ultramarine Blue, 1 1/4 inch Golden Yellow, and 1/16 inch Ultramarine Blue.


Criteria
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Background

The China Campaign Medal was established by General Order 5 dated January 12, 1905.

The dragon, the Imperial emblem when China was an empire, is symbolic of that country. The color yellow was restricted for use only by the Manchu rulers of China during the Ts'ing dynasty (1644-1911). The color blue is emblematic of the east and of the dragon. The eagle standing on the group of trophies signifies the United States Army.

There are three streamers displayed on the Army flag to represent the China Relief Expedition. The inscriptions are:

  • TIENTSIN 1900
  • YANG-TSUN 1900
  • PEKING 1900




Army of Cuban Pacification Medal


Description

The Bronze medal is 1 inches in width. It is oxidized, relieved and has a matte finish. On the obverse is the Coat of Arms of the Cuban Republic resting on fasces surmounted by the Cap of Liberty bearing a single star, branch of oak and laurel below, on each side a soldier in the service uniform of the United States Army, with rifle at parade rest. Above, in two lines, the words "CUBAN PACIFICATION" appear with the dates "1906 - 1909" below. The reverse consists of, a spread eagle on a trophy consisting of a cannon, six rifles and four standards, and Indian shield, quiver of arrows and three spears, a Cuban machete and Sulu kris. Below the trophy are the words "FOR SERVICE". The whole is surrounded by a circle composed of the words "UNITED STATES ARMY" in the upper half and thirteen stars in the lower half.

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches in width. It is composed of the following vertical stripes: 1/8 inch Old Glory Red 67156; 1/8 inch White 67101; 1/8 inch Ultramarine Blue 67118; 5/8 inch Olive Drab 67133; 1/8 inch Ultramarine Blue; 1/8 inch White; and 1/8 inch Old Glory Red.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

Medal (regular size) - MIL-DTL-3943/187.

Army Ribbon - MIL-DTL-11589/42.


Background

The medal was authorized by the President in General Orders 96, dated 11 May 1909, and was made at the Philadelphia Mint.





Mexican Service Medal


Description

The medal is bronze with oxidized, relieved finish.

A Yucca plant in full bloom with mountains in the background. Above the plant appear the words MEXICAN SERVICE around the border and below the plant are the dates 1911-1917.

On the reverse is a spread eagle on a trophy consisting of a cannon, six rifles and four standards, an Indian shield, quiver of arrows and three spears, a Cuban machete and a Sulu Kris, all above the words FOR SERVICE. Around the border at the top are the words UNITED STATES ARMY and thirteen stars around the bottom.

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches in width and consists of the following vertical stripes: 1/8 inch Emerald Green, 3/8 inch Golden Yellow, 3/8 inch Ultramarine Blue, 3/8 inch Golden Yellow, and 1/8 inch Emerald Green.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

Medal. MIL-DTL-3943/194.

Ribbon. MIL-DTL-11589/94.

Army organization which received campaign participation credit for Mexican service may display streamers on their organizational flag. The inscription will be as indicated in the unit's lineage and honors.


Background

The Mexican Service Medal was established on December 12, 1917 by War Department General Orders Number 155.

The Yucca plant symbolizes the geographical area of the campaign, and its thorny, spear-like leaves allude to the nature of the raids carried out by Mexican bandits. The mountains in the background represent the type of terrain on which engagements were fought. The wording and dates denote the campaign and the period during which it was conducted. The colors green and yellow are associated with the Aztecs of ancient Mexico. The Aztec standard carried at the battle of Otumba in 1520 consisted of a gold sun surrounded by the green plumes of the quetzal. The blue alludes to the United States Army and also refers to the Rio Grande River that separates in part Mexico from the United States.

One streamer is displayed on the Army flag to represent Mexican Service. The inscription is MEXICO 1916-1917.





Mexican Border Service Medal


Description
A bronze medal, 1 1/4 inch in diameter, with an oxidized, relieved finish.

A sheathed Roman sword hanging on a tablet which is inscribed FOR SERVICE ON THE MEXICAN BORDER. The tablet is surrounded by a laurel wreath.

The Coat of Arms of the United States above a scroll and surrounded by a wreath ending at the center with cross rifles in dexter, crossed sabers in sinister, and crossed cannons in base.

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches in width and consists of the following vertical stripes: 7/16 inch Emerald Green, 1/2 inch Golden Yellow, 7/16 inch and Emerald Green.


Criteria
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Components

Medal. MIL-DTL-3943/193.

Ribbon. MIL-DTL-11589/93.


Background

The Mexican Border Service Medal was established by Act of Congress (Public Law 193, 65th Congress) on July 9, 1918.

The Roman sword symbolizes war or military strength and is sheathed to indicate service in the United States rather than in actual combat. The wreath represents achievement. The rifles, sabers, and cannons represent the Infantry, Cavalry, and Artillery. The ribbon colors are the same as used in the Mexican Service Medal.





World War I Victory Medal


Description
The medal is Bronze and 1 3/8 inches in diameter. On the obverse is a winged Victory, standing full length and full face. On the reverse is the inscription "THE GREAT WAR FOR CIVILIZATION" and the United States shield with the letters "U.S." surmounted by a fasces, and on either side the names of the allied and associated nations. The lapel button is a five-pointed star 5/8-inch in diameter on a wreath with the letters "U.S." in the center.

Ribbon

The medal is suspended by a ring from a silk ribbon 1 3/8 inches in width, representing two rainbows placed in juxtaposition and having the red in the middle.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Battle clasps were awarded for each of the major operations for individuals actually present under competent orders. The clasps, with a star on each side of the name of the campaign or one of the defensive sectors, were worn on the suspension ribbon for the following campaigns:

  • Cambrai: 20 May - 4 Dec 1917
  • Somme Defensive: 21 Mar - 6 Apr 1918
  • Lys: 9 Apr - 27 Apr 1918
  • Aisne: 27 May - 5 Jun 1918
  • Montdidier-Noyon: 9 Jun - 13 Jun 1918
  • Champagne-Marne: 18 Jul - 6 Aug 1918
  • Aisne-Marne: 18 Jul - 6 Aug 1918
  • Somme Offensive: 8 Aug - 11 Nov 1918
  • Oise-Aisne: 18 Aug - 11 Nov 1918
  • Ypres-Lys: 19 Aug - 11 Nov 1918
  • St. Mihiel: 12-16 Sep 1918
  • Meuse-Argonne: 26 Sep - 11 Nov 1918
  • Vittorio-Veneto: 24 Oct - 4 Nov 1918
  • Defense Sector 

Clasps were awarded to personnel who served overseas in one of the following areas and were not entitled to a battle clasp:

  • England: 6 Apr 1917 - 11 Nov 1918
  • France: 6 Apr 1917 - 11 Nov 1918
  • Italy: 6 Apr 1917 - 11 Nov 1918
  • Siberia: Any service in Siberia
  • Russia: Any service in European Russia

The lapel button is bronze, except that personnel who were wounded in action were awarded a silver lapel button.


Components

The following components are authorized:

a. Medal (regular and miniature sizes): MIL-DTL-3943/236.

b. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/148.

c. Lapel Button: MIL-DTL-11484/47

d. Streamers. Streamers are displayed on the organizational flag to represent campaign participation. The inscription on the organizational streamer will be as indicated in the unit's lineage and honors.


Background

The medal was established by an Act of Congress, 1919, and promulgated by War Department General Order 48, 1919, which was rescinded by War Department General Order 83, 30 June 1919.

The 14 Allied Nations decided on a single ribbon, but pendant design was left up to each Nation. Mr. James E. Fraser was the designer of the U.S. Victory Medal.

The Victory Medal ribbon pattern is used in thirteen streamers displayed on the Army flag to represent World War I service. The inscriptions for the streamers displayed on the Army flag are listed in AR 840-10.





Army Occupation of Germany - World War I


Description

The medal is Bronze and 1 inches in diameter. On the obverse is a profile of General John J. Pershing, encircled by four stars indicating his insignia of grade as Commanding General of the Field Forces. In the lower left is the inscription "GENERAL JOHN J. PERSHING" and on the right is a laurel wreath superimposed by a sword with the dates "1918" and "1923" enclosed by the wreath. The reverse shows the American eagle perched with outspread wings standing on the Castle Ehrenbreitstein, encircled by the words "U.S. ARMY OF OCCUPATION OF GERMANY" and three stars at the bottom of the medal.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches in width consisting of the following stripes: 1/16 inch Ultramarine Blue 67118; 1/16 inch Scarlet 67111; 3/16 inch White 67101; inch Black 67138 (center); 3/16 inch White; 1/16 inch Scarlet; 1/16 inch Ultramarine Blue.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following components are authorized:

a. Medal (regular and miniature sizes): MIL-DTL-3943/245.

b. Ribbon: MIL-STD-11589/15


Background

The medal was established by Public Law 322, 77th Congress on 21 November 1941, and announced in War Department Bulletin 34, dated 10 December 1941, and War Department Circular 176 dated 6 June 1942.

The medal was designed by Mr. T. A. Rovelstad, Heraldic Division, Office of the Quartermaster General, in June 1942, and was approved by the Secretary of War on 8 July 1942.

The obverse of the medal includes the dates of the U.S. Occupation of Germany. The reverse depicts the eagle standing on the Castle of Ehrenbreitstein, which overlooks the Rhine in Coblenz, Germany. The three stars on the reverse symbolize the Third Army, which comprised the occupation forces of Germany.





American Defense Service Medal


Description

The Bronze medal is 1 ¼ inches in width. On the obverse is a female Grecian figure symbolic of defense, holding in her sinister hand an ancient war shield in reverse and her dexter hand brandishing a sword above her head, and standing upon a conventionalized oak branch with four leaves. Around the top is the lettering "AMERICAN DEFENSE". On the reverse is the wording "FOR SERVICE DURING THE LIMITED EMERGENCY PROCLAIMED BY THE PRESIDENT ON SEPTEMBER 8,1939 OR DURING THE UNLIMITED EMERGENCY PROCLAIMED BY THE PRESIDENT ON MAY 27,1941" above a seven-leafed spray of laurel. The foreign service clasp is a Bronze bar 1/8 inch in width and 1-1/2 inches in length with the words "FOREIGN SERVICE", with a star at each end of the inscription. The foreign service clasp is placed on the suspension ribbon of the medal.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 3/16 inch Golden Yellow 67104; 1/8 inch triparted Old Glory Blue 67178; White 67101; and Scarlet 67111; center inch Golden Yellow; 1/8 inch triparted Scarlet; White; and Old Glory Blue 67178; and 3/16 inch Golden yellow.


Criteria
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards

Components

The following are authorized components:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/228. Medal set with full size medal and ribbon bar. NSN: 8455-00-269-5780.

b. Medal (miniature): MIL-DTL-3943/228. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/10. NSN: 8455-00-257-0513. Available commercially.

d. Foreign Service Clasp: MIL-R-41819/9. NSN: 8455-00-249-0187.


Background

The American Defense Service Medal was established per Executive Order 8808, dated 28 June 1941, by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and announced in War Department Bulletin 17, 1941. The criteria was announced in Department of the Army Circular 44, dated 13 February 1942.

The ribbon design was approved by the Secretary of War and the Secretary of Navy on January 7, 1942. The golden yellow color was symbolic of the golden opportunity of the youth of the United States to serve the National colors, represented by the blue, white and red pin stripes on each side.

The medal was designed by Mr. Lee Lawrie, a civilian sculptor from Easton, Maryland. The model was approved by the Commission of Fine Arts on May 5, 1942.

The foreign service clasp is worn on the suspension ribbon to indicate service outside the Continental United States. A bronze star is worn on the service ribbon in lieu of the foreign service clasp.





Women's Army Corps Service Medal


Description

A Bronze medal, 1 ¼ inches in diameter, with the head of Pallas Athene in profile facing right, superimposed on a sheathed sword cross with oak leaves and a palm branch within a circle composed of the words "WOMEN'S" in the upper half, and in the lower half "ARMY CORPS". On the reverse, within an arrangement of 13 stars, is a scroll bearing the words "FOR SERVICE IN THE WOMEN'S ARMY AUXILIARY CORPS" in front of the letters "U S" in lower relief. At the top and perched on the scroll is an eagle with wings elevated and displayed and at the bottom, the date "1942-1943".


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/8 inch Old Gold 67105; 1 1/8 inch Mosstone Green 67127; and 1/8 inch Old Gold.


Criteria
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Components

The following are authorized components of the Women's Army Corps Service medal:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/199.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-STD-3943/199. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-STD-11589/153. Available commercially.

d. Lapel Button: Available commercially.


Background

The Women's Army Corps Service Medal was established by Executive Order 9365 and promulgated in War Department Bulletin 17, 1943.

Proposed designs were submitted to the Secretary of War for approval on 12 Dec 44 and approved by the Secretary on 16 Dec 44. The design by Mr. Thomas Hudson Jones, Heraldic Branch, Office of the Quartermaster General, has Pallas Athene, the Greek Goddess of Wisdom and the Arts. The ribbon colors are the branch colors of the Women's Army Corps.





American Campaign Medal


Description

The Bronze medal is 1 ¼ inches in width. On the obverse is a Navy cruiser under full steam with a B-24 airplane flying overhead with a sinking enemy submarine in the foreground on three wave symbols, in the background a few buildings representing the arsenal of democracy, above the scene the words "AMERICAN CAMPAIGN". On the reverse an American bald eagle close between the dates "1941 - 1945" and the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA".


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 3/16 inch Oriental Blue 67172; 1/16 inch White 67101; 1/16 inch Black 67138; 1/16 inch Scarlet 67111; 1/16 inch White; 3/16 inch Oriental Blue; center 1/8 triparted Old Glory Blue 67178, White and Scarlet; 3/16 inch Oriental Blue; 1/16 inch White; 1/16 inch Scarlet; 1/16 inch Black; 1/16 inch White; and 3/16 inch Oriental Blue.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components:

Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/227. Medal set with full size medal and ribbon bar. NSN 8455-00-269-5760.

Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/227. Available commercially.

Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/9. NSN 8455-00-257-0517. Available commercially.

Streamer: The American Campaign ribbon is used as a streamer. The Army displays only one streamer on the Army flag, that of the Antisubmarine Campaign, because there were no Army units that received campaign participation credit for the other two designated campaigns.


Background

The American Campaign Medal was established per Executive Order 9265, dated 6 November 1942, by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and announced in War Department Bulletin 56, 1942. The criteria was initially announced in Department of the Army (DA) Circular 1, dated 1 January 1943, so that the ribbon could be authorized prior to design of the medal. The criteria for the medal was announced in DA Circular 84, dated 25 March 1948 and subsequently published in Army Regulation 600-65, dated 22 September 1948.

The ribbon design was approved by the Secretary of War on 24 November 1942. The blue color represents the Americas; the central blue, white and red stripes (taken from the American Defense Service Medal ribbon) refers to the continuance of American defense after Pearl Harbor. The white and black stripes refer to the German part of the conflict on the Atlantic Coast, while the red and white stripes are for the Japanese colors and refer to that part of the conflict on the Pacific Coast.

The medal was designed by Mr. Thomas Hudson Jones. The reverse side was designed by Mr. A. A. Weinman and is the same design as used on the reverse of the European-African-Middle Eastern and Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medals. The first medal was presented to General of the Army George C. Marshall on 17 December 1947.

One bronze service star is authorized for wear on the American Campaign Medal to denote participation in the antisubmarine campaign. The individual must have been assigned or attached to, and present for duty with, a unit credited with the campaign.





Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal


Description

The Bronze medal is 1-1/4 inches in width. On the obverse is a tropical landing scene with a battleship, aircraft carrier, submarine and an aircraft in the background with landing troops and palm trees in the foreground with the words "ASIATIC PACIFIC CAMPAIGN" above the scene. On the reverse, an American bald eagle close between the dates "1941 - 1945" and the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA".


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 3/16 inch Yellow 67108; 1/16 inch White 67101; 1/16 inch Scarlet 67111; 1/16 inch White; inch Yellow; center 1/8 triparted Old Glory Blue 67178, White and Scarlet; inch Yellow; 1/16 inch White; 1/16 inch Scarlet; 1/16 inch White; and 3/16 inch Yellow.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/247. Medal set with full size medal and ribbon bar. NSN 8455-00-269-5764.

b. Medal (miniature): MIL-DTL-3943/247. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/17. NSN 8455-00-257-0525. Available commercially.

d. Streamer: The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign ribbon is used as a streamer for 21 streamers on the Army flag. Units that received campaign credit display the streamers with the inscription as listed on their lineage and honors.


Background

The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was established per Executive Order 9265, dated 6 November 1942, by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and announced in War Department Bulletin 56, 1942. The criteria was initially announced in Department of the Army (DA) Circular 1, dated 1 January 1943, so that the ribbon could be authorized prior to design of the medal. The criteria for the medal was announced in DA Circular 84, dated 25 March 1948, and subsequently published in Army Regulation 600-65, dated 22 September 1948.

The ribbon design was approved by the Secretary of War on 24 November 1942. The yellow ribbon has white and red on each side to represent the Japanese colors. The center blue, white, and red stripes are taken from the American Defense Service Medal ribbon and refers to the continuance of American Defense after Pearl Harbor.

The medal was designed by Mr. Thomas Hudson Jones. The reverse side was designed by Mr. A. A. Weinman and is the same design as used on the reverse of the European-African-Middle Eastern and American Campaign Medals. The medal design was submitted to the Commission of Fine Arts on 22 May 1947 and the first medal was presented to General of the Army Douglas MacArthur on 17 December 1947.

A bronze star is worn on the ribbon to indicate participation in designated campaigns. The designated campaigns for the Asiatic-Pacific Theater and inscriptions used on the Army Flag streamer set are:

  • Philippine Island 7 Dec 41 - 10 May 42
  • Burma, 1942 7 Dec 41 - 26 May 42
  • Central Pacific 7 Dec 41 - 6 Dec 43
  • East Indies 1 Jan 42 - 22 Jul 42
  • India-Burma 2 Apr 42 - 28 Jan 45
  • Air Offensive, Japan 17 Apr 42 - 2 Sep 45
  • Aleutian Islands 3 Jun 42 - 24 Aug 43
  • China Defensive 4 Jul 42 - 4 May 45
  • Papua 23 Jul 42 - 23 Jan 43
  • Guadalcanal 7 Aug 42 - 21 Feb 43
  • New Guinea 24 Jan 43 - 31 Dec 44
  • Northern Solomons 22 Feb 43 - 21 Nov 44
  • Eastern Mandates 7 Dec 43 - 14 Jun 44
  • Bismarck Archipelago 15 Dec 43 - 27 Nov 44
  • Western Pacific 17 Apr 44 - 2 Sep 45
  • Lyete 17 Oct 44 - 1 Jul 45
  • Luzon 15 Dec 44 - 4 Jul 45
  • Central Burma 29 Jan 45 - 15 Jul 45
  • Southern Philippines 27 Feb 45 - 4 Jul 45
  • Ryukyus 26 Mar 45 - 2 Jul 45
  • China Offensive 5 May 45 - 2 Sep 45
  • * Antisubmarine 7 Dec 41 - 2 Sep 45
  • * Ground Combat: 7 Dec 41 - 2 Sep 45
  • * Air Combat: 7 Dec 41 - 2 Sep 45

* These campaigns are not displayed as streamers on the Army flag.

A bronze arrowhead is worn on the ribbon to indicate participation in a combat parachute jump, combat glider landing, or amphibious assault landing within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater.





European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal


Description

The Bronze medal is 1 ¼ inches in width. On the obverse is a LST landing craft and troops landing under fire with an airplane in the background below the words "EUROPEAN AFRICAN MIDDLE EASTERN CAMPAIGN". On the reverse, an American bald eagle close between the dates "1941 - 1945" and the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA".


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 3/16 inch Brown 67136; 1/16 inch Irish Green 67189; 1/16 inch White 67101; 1/16 inch Scarlet 67111; inch Irish Green; center 1/8 inch triparted Old Glory Blue 67178, White and Scarlet; inch Irish Green; 1/16 inch White; 1/16 inch Black 67138; 1/16 inch White; and 3/16 inch Brown.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/248. Medal set with full size medal and ribbon bar. NSN 8455-00-269-5768.

b. Medal (miniature): MIL-DTL-3943/248. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/57. NSN 8455-00-257-0537. Available commercially.

d. Streamer: The EAME Campaign ribbon is used as a streamer for 16 streamers on the Army flag. Units that receive campaign credit display the streamers for the applicable campaigns in which they participated.


Background

The EAME Campaign Medal was established per Executive Order 9265, dated 6 November 1942, by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and announced in War Department Bulletin 56, 1942. The criteria was initially announced in Department of the Army (DA) Circular 84, dated 25 March 1948, and subsequently published in Army Regulation 600-65, dated 22 September 1948.

The ribbon design was approved by the Secretary of War in December 1942. The brown represents the sands of Africa and the green represents the green fields of Europe. The center blue, white, and red stripes are taken from the American Defense Service Medal ribbon and refers to the continuance of American Defense after Pearl Harbor. Green, white and red are the Italian colors and the white and black colors represent Germany.

The medal was designed by Mr. Thomas Hudson Jones, based on General Eisenhower's request that the medal include an invasion scene. The reverse side was designed by Mr. A. A. Weinman and is the same design as used on the reverse of the Asiatic-Pacific and American Campaign Medals. The medal design was submitted to the Commission of Fine Arts on 17 September 1946 and the first sample was completed in July 1947. General Eisenhower was presented the first medal on 24 July 1947.

A bronze star is worn on the ribbon to indicate participation in designated campaigns. The designated campaigns for the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater are:

  • Egypt-Libya 11 Jun 42 - 12 Feb 43
  • Air Offensive, Europe 4 Jul 42 - 5 Jun 44
  • Algeria-French Morocco 8-11 Nov 42
  • Tunisia 12 Nov 42 - 13 May 43
  • Sicily 14 May 43 - 17 Aug 43
  • Naples-Foggia 18 Aug 43 - 21 Jan 44
  • Anzio 22 Jan 44 - 24 May 44
  • Rome-Arno 22 Jan 44 - 9 Sep 44
  • Normandy 6 Jun 44 - 24 Jul 44
  • Northern France 25 Jul 44 - 14 Sep 44
  • Southern France 15 Aug 44 - 14 Sep 44
  • Northern Apennines 10 Sep 44 - 4 Apr 45
  • Rhineland 15 Sep 44 - 21 Mar 45
  • Ardennes-Alsace 16 Dec 44 - 25 Jan 45
  • Central Europe 22 Mar 45 - 11 May 45
  • Po Valley 5 Apr 45 - 8 May 45
  • * Antisubmarine 7 Dec 41 - 2 Sep 45
  • * Ground Combat 7 Dec 41 - 2 Sep 45
  • * Air Combat: 7 Dec 41 - 2 Sep 45

* These campaigns are not displayed as streamers on the Army flag.

A bronze arrowhead is worn on the ribbon to indicate participation in a combat parachute jump, combat glider landing, or amphibious assault landing within the EAME Theater.





World War II Victory Medal


Description

The Bronze medal is 1 3/8 inches in width. On the obverse is a figure of Liberation standing full length with head turned to dexter looking to the dawn of a new day, right foot resting on a war god's helmet with the hilt of a broken sword in the right hand and the broken blade in the left hand, the inscription "WORLD WAR II" placed immediately below the center. On the reverse are the inscriptions "FREEDOM FROM FEAR AND WANT" and "FREEDOM OF SPEECH AND RELIGION" separated by a palm branch, all within a circle composed of the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 1914 1945".


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 3/8 inch double rainbow in juxtaposition (blues, greens, yellows, reds (center), yellows greens and blues); 1/32 inch White 67101; center 9/16 inch Old Glory Red 67156; 1/32 inch White; and 3/8 inch double rainbow in juxtaposition. The rainbow on each side of the ribbon is a miniature of the pattern used in the WWI Victory Medal.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components and related items:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/237. Medal set with full size medal and ribbon bar. NSN 8455-00-269-5782.

b. Medal (miniature): MIL-DTL-3943/237. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/149. NSN 8455-00-257-0577. Available commercially.

d. Streamer: The WW II Victory Medal ribbon is not used as a streamer by the Army. The Navy and Marine Corps does use the ribbon design for a streamer.


Background

The World War II Victory Medal was established by an Act of Congress on 6 July 1945 (Public Law 135, 79th Congress) and promulgated by Section V, War Department Bulletin 12, 1945.

The medal was designed by Mr. Thomas H. Jones and approved by the Secretary of War on 5 February 1946.

The Congressional authorization for the World War II Victory Medal included members of the Armed Forces of the Government of the Philippine Islands. It also specified the ending date would be the date of the termination of hostilities as proclaimed by the President. President Truman officially ended the state of hostilities on 31 December 1946.





Army of Occupation Medal


Description

The Bronze medal is 1 ¼ inches in width. On the obverse, the Remagen Bridge abutments below the words "ARMY OF OCCUPATION". On the reverse, Fujiyama with a low hanging cloud over two Japanese junks above a wave scroll and the date "1945". A Bronze clasp 1/8 inch wide and 1 ½ inches in length with the word "GERMANY" or "JAPAN" is worn on the suspension ribbon to indicate service in Europe or the Far East.

On the obverse is Neptune mounted on a composite creature of a charging horse and a sea serpent with a trident grasped in right hand above wave scrolls. Around the bottom of the medal are the words "OCCUPATION SERVICE". The reverse is the same as the China Service Medal and is an eagle perched on the shank of a horizontal anchor with a branch of laurel entwined around the anchor. On the left is the word "FOR" and to the right is the word "SERVICE" and around the top is the inscription "UNITED STATES NAVY".

The medal for the Marine Corps is the same as the Navy, except the inscription around the top of the reverse is "UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS".


Ribbon

The ribbon is the same for both medals and is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 3/16 inch White 67101; Â inch Black 67138; Â inch Scarlet 67111; and 3/16 inch White.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components:

a. Army Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/246. Medal set with full size medal and ribbon bar. NSN 8455-00-269-5763.

b. Army Medal (miniature): MIL-DTL-3943/246. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/112. NSN 8455-00-265-4910. Available commercially.

d. Foreign Service Clasp: MIL-DTL-41819/9: Germany - NSN 8455-00-249-0171; Japan - NSN 8455-00-249-0172.

e. Berlin Airlift Device: MIL-DTL-41819/13. Regular and miniature sizes. NSN 8455-00-261-4504.


Background

The Army Occupation Medal was established by War Department Circular 102, dated 5 April 1946.

The medal was designed by Mr. Thomas Hudson Jones and the first medal was presented to General Eisenhower on 2 April 1947. The ribbon design uses the color black to represent Germany and the color red to represent Japan.

On 4 February 1948, the Secretary of the Navy requested the Heraldic Section, Department of the Army, design a suitable Navy Occupation Service Medal. This medal was designed by Mr. Thomas Hudson Jones on 30 March 1948.

The service clasp is worn on the suspension ribbon to indicate area of occupation. The Berlin Airlift Device is a miniature of a C-54 type aircraft and is worn on the suspension ribbon and service ribbon to indicate 90 days consecutive service between 26 June 1948 and 30 September 1949.





Medal for Humane Action


Description

Medal: The Bronze medal is 1 ¼ inches in diameter. The miniature medal is 5/8 inch in diameter. On the obverse, in the center, a C-54 airplane (as viewed from above) within a wreath of wheat connected at the bottom by a coat of arms. On the reverse, an eagle, shield and arrows from the seal of the Department of Defense, beneath the words "FOR HUMANE ACTION" and above the inscription in four lines, "TO SUPPLY NECESSITIES OF LIFE TO THE PEOPLE OF BERLIN GERMANY".


Ribbon

The ribbon to the Medal for Humane Action is 1 3/8 inches in width and consists of the following stripes: 9/32 inch black; 1/16 inch white; 9/32 inch teal blue; 3/64 inch white; 1/32 inch scarlet; 3/64 inch white; 9/32 inch teal blue; 1/16 inch white; and 9/32 inch black.


Criteria
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Components

The following are authorized components:

a. Medal (regular and miniature sizes): MIL-DTL-3943/232.

b. Ribbon (regular and miniature sizes): MIL-DTL-11589/85E


Background

The Medal for Humane Action was established by an Act of Congress (Public Law 178, 81st Congress), 20 July 1949.

The medal was designed by Mr. Thomas Hudson Jones of The Institute of Heraldry.

The C-54 is the type of aircraft used in support of the Berlin airlift, and the coat of arms is that of the City of Berlin. The wreath of wheat represents the staff of life and thereby the necessities of life alluded to on the reverse of the medal.





National Defense Service Medal


Description

On a Bronze medal, 1 ¼ inches in diameter, an eagle displayed with inverted wings standing on a sword and palm branch, all beneath the inscription "NATIONAL DEFENSE". On the reverse is a shield taken from the Coat of Arms of the United States with an open wreath below it, the right side of oak leaves and the left side of laurel leaves.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 7/16 inch Scarlet 67111; 1/32 inch White 67101; 1/32 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/32 inch White; 1/32 inch Scarlet; center inch Golden Yellow 67104; 1/32 inch Scarlet; 1/32 inch White; 1/32 inch Old Glory Blue; 1/32 inch White; and 7/16 inch Scarlet.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/234. NSN 8455-00-281-3214 for set which includes regular size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/234. Available commercially from certified manufacturers.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/97. NSN 8455-00-264-1478.

d. Lapel Button: MIL-DTL-11484/185. Available commercially.


Background

The National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) was established by President Eisenhower per Executive Order 10448, dated 22 April 1953, for service between 27 June 1950 and a date to be announced. On 17 June 1954, the Chief of Staff approved establishment of 27 July 1954 as the termination date for award of the NDSM. Executive Order 11265, dated 11 January 1966, amended Executive Order 10488, to include a termination date and authorized the Secretary of Defense to establish periods of eligibility subsequent to 31 December 1960. Eligibility for award, commencing with the period after 31 December 1960, was established by DOD Directive 1348.7, dated 1 April 1966, and terminated effective 15 August 1974, per letter from Manpower and Reserve Affairs, subject: Termination of Eligibility for the National Defense Service Medal, dated 30 June 1974. The NDSM was again authorized by memorandum, dated 20 February 1991, from Secretary of Defense Cheney for active service on or after 2 August 1990 with no termination date established. The termination date was later established as 30 November 1995. The NDSM was reinstated by memorandum from The Deputy Secretary of Defense, dated 26 April 2002, from 11 September 2001 to a termination date to be determined in the future.

The Heraldic Division, Quartermaster General's Office, was requested to provide proposed designs for the NDSM and designs created by Mr. T. H. Jones were submitted to the G1 on 26 May 1953. A committee appointed by DOD, which included representatives of all services, met on 27 May 1953 and 3 June 1953 and selected the design for final approval. The eagle, our National emblem, together with the shield of the Coat of Arms of the United States is used to symbolize the defense of the United States. The combination of oak and palm leaves signify strength and preparedness.

Order of precedence and wear policy for medals awarded to Army personnel is contained in AR 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority and supply of medals is contained in AR 600-8-22.





Korean Service Medal


Description
On a Bronze medal, 1 inches in diameter, a Korean gateway, encircled by the inscription "KOREAN SERVICE". On the reverse is the Korean symbol taken from the center of the Korean National flag with the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and a spray of oak and laurel encircling the design

Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consisting of the following stripes: 1/32 inch White 67101; 19/32 inch Bluebird 67117; center 1/8 inch White; 19/32 inch Bluebird; and 1/32 inch White.


Criteria
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Components

The following are authorized components and related items:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/223. NSN 8455-00-269-5771 for set which includes regular size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature): MIL-DTL-3946/223. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/78. NSN 8455-00-264-1478.

d. Streamers for units receiving campaign credit - manual requisition in accordance with AR 840-10. The inscription will be as shown on the unit's lineage and honors.


Background

The Korean Service Medal was established by President Truman per Executive Order 10179, dated 8 November 1950, and announced in DA Bulletin 21, 1950. The design, created by Mr. Thomas J. Jones, uses the symbols associated with Korea to reflect service in that Country.

There were ten campaigns designated for the Korean War and displayed as streamers on the Army flag. The campaign streamers are of the same design as the suspension ribbon for the metal. A bronze star is worn on the ribbon to indicate individual participation for each campaign. The inscriptions on the Army flag streamers are:

  • UN Defensive 27 Jun - 15 Sep 50
  • UN Offensive 16 Sep - 2 Nov 50
  • CCF Intervention 3 Nov 50 - 24 Jan 51
  • First UN Counteroffensive 25 Jan - 21 Apr 51
  • CCF Spring Offensive 22 Apr - 8 Jul 51
  • UN Summer-Fall Offensive 9 Jul - 27 Nov 51
  • Second Korean Winter 28 Nov 51 - 30 Apr 52
  • Korean, Summer-Fall 1952 1 May - 30 Nov 52
  • Third Korean Winter 1 Dec 52 - 30 Apr 53
  • Korean, Summer 1953 1 May - 27 Jul 53

Order of precedence and wear policy for service medals awarded to Army personnel is contained in AR 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority and supply of medals is contained in AR 600-8-22. Policy for display of campaign streamers on guidons/flags and supply of streamers is contained in Chapter 9, AR 840-10.





Antarctica Service Medal


Description

A Bronze medal, 1 ¼ inches in diameter, with a view of a polar landscape and the standing figure in Antarctica clothing facing to the front between the horizontally placed words "ANTARCTICA" on the figure's right and "SERVICE" on the figure's left. On the reverse is a polar projection with geodesic lines of the continent of Antarctica across which are the horizontally placed words "COURAGE", "SACRIFICE", and "DEVOTION", all within a circular decorative border of penguins and marine life.

On a metal clasp, 1 ¼ inches in width and ¼ inch in height, inscribed with the words "WINTERED OVER" in raised letters within a 1/32 inch rim. The metal color of the clasp is Bronze for the first winter, Gold for the second winter and Silver for the third winter.

On a metal disc, 5/16 inch in diameter, a superimposed delineation of the Antarctica continent. The metal color of the ribbon attachment is Bronze for the first winter, Gold for the second winter and Silver for the third winter.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of a 3/16 inch Black stripe on each edge and graded from a White stripe in the center to a Pale Blue, Light Blue, Greenish Blue, and Medium Blue.


Criteria
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Components

The following are authorized components and related items:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/229. NSN 8455-00-965-1708 for full size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/229. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/11. NSN 8455-00-965-1707. Available commercially.

d. Lapel Button: MIL-L-11484/65. NSN 8455-00-985-7453.

e. Attachments: Wintered Over Clasp: MIL-R-41819/17. Bronze clasp is NSN 8455-00-082-3070, Gold clasp is NSN 8455-00-082-3071, and Silver clasp is NSN 8455-00-082-3072. Miniature clasps are available commercially. The stock numbers for the disc are: Bronze 8455-00-082-3073; Gold 8455-00-082-3074; and Silver 8455-00-082-3075.


Background

The Antarctica Service Medal was established by Public Law 86-600 and promulgated in Department of Defense (DOD) Instructions 1348.9 and announced in Department of the Army (DA) Bulletin 3, 1960.

The Navy was designated as the lead Service for DOD in coordination of the new medal. On 28 November 1960, the Navy requested the Quartermaster General's Office (The Institute of Heraldry) provide proposed designs and assist in development. Proposed designs were forwarded and the Under Secretary of the Navy approved a design on 17 May 1962. Development was completed and samples provided to the Under Secretary of the Navy on 3 December 1962.





Coast Guard Arctic Service Medal


Description

Obverse:  In the center of a bronze medallion 1-1/4 inches in diameter, a polar bear is shown in profile with its head to the left, walking on a sheet of ice represented by a straight line.  Below the line are two undulating lines, depicting water.  Above the bear and following the contour of the upper quarter of the medal, the words "ARCTIC SERVICE."  An eight-pointed star is above the bear's back and beneath the inscription.

Reverse:  On the reverse of the medal, the  Seal of the United States Coast Guard under whose authority the medal is awarded is displayed.


Ribbon
The multi-colored ribbon consists of stripes in the colors:  white, forget-me-not, blue turquoise, grotto blue, bluebird and black.  The ribbon is the reverse of the Antarctic Service Medal, indicating service at its opposite (North) pole.

Criteria
See COMDTINST M1650.25D (Medals and Awards Manual).

Background
The Arctic Service Medal was established by Admiral Owen W. Siler, Commandant of the Coast Guard, on May 20, 1976.  It was designed by Arnold Simmons of the Army's Institute of Heraldry and has been retroactively awarded for qualifying service in the Arctic since January 1, 1946.  The Arctic Service Medal may be awarded to any member of the Coast Guard who has served 21 consecutive days under certain specified criteria.




Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal


Description

On a Bronze medal, 1 ¼ inches in diameter, an eagle, with wings addorsed and inverted, standing on a sword loosened in its scabbard, and super- imposed on a radiant compass rose of eight points, all within the circumscription "ARMED FORCES" above and "EXPEDITIONARY SERVICE" below with a sprig of laurel on each side. On the reverse is the shield from the United States Coat of Arms above two laurel branches separated by a bullet, all within the circumscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA".


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 3/32 inch Green 67129; 3/32 inch Golden Yellow 67104; 3/32 inch Spicebrown 67196; 3/32 inch Black 67138; 7/32 inch Bluebird 67117; 1/16 inch Ultramarine Blue 67118; 1/16 inch White 67101; 1/16 inch Scarlet; 7/32 inch Bluebird; 3/32 inch Black; 3/32 inch Spicebrown; 3/32 inch Golden Yellow; and 3/32 inch Green.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components and related items:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/230. NSN 8455-00-082-5638 for set which includes regular size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3946/230. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/12. NSN 8455-00-082-2344.

d. Lapel Button: MIL-DTL-11484. Available commercially.

e. Streamers: MIL-S-14650. Manual requisition in accordance with AR 840-10.


Background

During the late 1950's, it became apparent that a medal was needed to recognize the services of the Armed Forces who participated in the increased involvement of the American military in peacekeeping activities. As a result, President Kennedy established the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, per Executive Order 10977, dated 4 December 1961, for operations on or after 1 July 1958.

In a memorandum dated 20 December 1961, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense requested that The Institute of Heraldry submit proposed designs as soon as possible. Proposed designs were submitted on 25 January 1962 and a design, created by Mr. Jay Morris, was tentatively selected. The design was submitted to the Commission of Fine Arts for comments prior to approval by the Deputy Secretary of Defense on 24 April 1962.

The selected design uses the eagle to represent the strength of our Armed Forces, and the sword, loose in its scabbard, denotes the readiness to serve wherever needed, as further suggested by the compass rose.

A bronze service star is worn to denote second and subsequent awards of the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. Each Service may authorize the use of campaign streamers for operations in the designated areas. The Army has authorized campaign credit and display of streamers for four areas: Grenada, Panama, Somalia and the Dominican Republic.

Order of precedence and wear policy for service medals awarded to Army personnel is contained in Army Regulation (AR) 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority and supply of medals is contained in AR 600-8-22. The policy for display of campaign streamers on guidons/flags and supply of streamers is contained in Chapter 9, AR 840-10.





Vietnam Service Medal


Description

On a Bronze medal, 1 ¼ inches in diameter, an oriental dragon behind a grove of bamboo trees above the inscription "REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM SERVICE". On the reverse, a crossbow surmounted by a torch above the arched inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA".


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/8 inch Primitive Green 67188; 5/16 inch Air Force Yellow 67103; 1/16 inch Old Glory Red 67156; 5/32 inch Air Force Yellow; center 1/16 inch Old Glory Red; 5/32 inch Air Force Yellow; 1/16 inch Old Glory Red; 5/16 inch Air Force Yellow; and 1/8 inch Primitive Green.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components and related items:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/230. NSN 8455-00-926-1664 for set which includes a regular size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/230. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/151. NSN 8455-00-926-1530.

d. Lapel Button (metal replica of ribbon bar): MIL-L-11484/69. Available commercially.

e. Streamer: MIL-S-14650. Manual requisition in accordance with Chapter 9, Army Regulation (AR) 840-10.


Background

a. On 21 August 1964, the Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel (DCSPER) requested that The Institute of Heraldry provide proposed designs for the possible adoption of a Vietnam Service Medal. Proposed designs were submitted to DCSPER on 29 September 1964. The Vietnam Service Medal was established by Executive Order 11231, dated 8 July 1965. The design approved by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, 12 July 1965, and the policy for award was promulgated by DOD Directive 1348.15, dated 1 October 1965.

b. The design, created by Miss Mercedes Lee, includes bamboo trees which are adapted from the flag of the President of Vietnam and the half-concealed dragon represents the subversive nature of the conflict. The crossbow, on the reverse, is the ancient weapon of Vietnam and the torch of the Statue of Liberty is a symbol of the United States devotion to liberty and freedom. The yellow ribbon with three vertical red stripes suggests the color of the flag of the Republic of Vietnam. The green border on each side alludes to the jungle of that Country.

c. Soldiers receiving the Vietnam Service Medal are authorized to wear a bronze star to indicate each campaign. There are 17 designated campaigns during the period of 15 March 1962 through 28 January 1973. Units which receive campaign credit for any of the campaigns would display a streamer with inscription as shown on the unit's lineage and honors. The designated campaigns are:

  • Vietnam Advisory 1962-1965
  • Vietnam Defense 1965
  • Vietnam Counteroffensive 1965-1966
  • Vietnam Phase II 1966 - 1967
  • Vietnam Counteroffensive Phase III 1967-1968
  • Tet Counteroffensive 1968
  • Vietnam Counteroffensive Phase IV 1968
  • Vietnam Counteroffensive Phase V 1968
  • Vietnam Counteroffensive Phase VI 1968-1969
  • Tet 69 Counteroffensive 1969
  • Vietnam Summer-Fall 1969
  • Vietnam Winter-Spring 1970
  • Sanctuary Counteroffensive 1970
  • Vietnam Counteroffensive Phase VII 1970-1971
  • Consolidation I 1971
  • Consolidation II 1971-1972
  • Vietnam Cease-Fire 1972-1973




Southwest Asia Service Medal


Description
A Bronze medal 1 ¼ inches wide, with the words "SOUTHWEST ASIA SERVICE" across the center background. Above the center is a desert scene with a tank, armored personnel carrier, helicopter and camels with the rising sun in the background. Below the center is a seascape with ship, tanker, aircraft and clouds in the background. On the reverse, is an upraised sword entwined with a palm frond and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" around the edge.

Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/16 inch Black 67138; 1/8 inch Chamois 67142; 1/16 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/16 inch White 67101; 1/16 inch Old Glory Red 67156; 3/16 inch Chamois; 3/32 inch Myrtle Green 67190; center 1/16 inch Black; 3/32 inch Myrtle Green; 3/16 inch Chamois; 1/16 inch Old Glory Red; 1/16 inch White; 1/16 inch Old Glory Blue; 1/8 inch Chamois; and 1/16 inch Black.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components and related items:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/243. NSN 8455-01-334-9513 for set which includes regular size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/243. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/356. Available commercially.

d. Lapel Button (ribbon replica): MIL-DTL-11484/177. Available commercially.

e. Streamer of the same pattern as the ribbon is authorized for units that received campaign credit participation. The inscription will be as indicated on the unit's lineage and honors.


Background

In October 1990, the Deputy Director of Personnel and Administrative Services, Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD), requested that The Institute of Heraldry provide proposed designs of a service medal for Southwest Asia. Proposed medal designs were forwarded to OSD on 30 October 1990. A proposed Executive Order to authorize the service medal was staffed to the Services, by OSD, on 11 February 1991. President Bush established the Southwest Asia Service Medal by Executive Order 12754, dated 12 March 1991.

The medal selected was designed by Miss Nadine Russell and recognizes the joint-service nature of the operation. It depicts a tank, armored personnel carrier, helicopter, ship and aircraft with a desert and seascape. The reverse side symbolized military might and preparedness in defense of peace. The sand colored ribbon with red, white, blue, green and black stripes represented the colors of the United States and the coalition members.

Bronze stars are worn on the ribbon to indicate campaign participation by the service member. Three campaigns have been designated - - "DEFENSE OF SAUDI ARABIA" for the period 2 August 1990 through 16 January 1991, "LIBERATION AND DEFENSE OF KUWAIT" for the period 17 January 1991 through 11 April 1991, and "SOUTHWEST ASIA CEASE- FIRE" for the period 12 April 1991 through 30 November 1995.

The criteria/policy for the Southwest Asia Service Medal was promulgated by Change No. 1 to DOD 1348-33-M, dated 14 June 1991. This manual established the two campaigns for Southwest Asia. The Joint Chiefs of Staff approved a termination date for the second campaign and established the third campaign per memorandum, dated 3 December 1991, from the Director, Joint Staff, subject: Termination Date for the Second Campaign and Establishment of a Third Campaign for the Southwest Asia Service Medal.

Order of precedence and wear policy for service medals awarded to Army personnel is contained in Army Regulation (AR) 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority and supply of medals is contained in AR 600-8-22. The policy for display of campaign streamers on guidons/flags and supply of streamers is contained in Chapter 9, 840-10.





Kosovo Campaign Medal


Description

A Bronze medal, 1 1/4 inches in diameter, with the stylized wreath of grain, reflecting the agricultural domination of the area and its economy, symbolizes the basic human rights while highlighting the desire of all for peace, safety and prosperity. The rocky terrain, fertile valley, and mountain pass refer to the Dinartic Alps and the Campaign Theater of operations. The sunrise denotes the dawning of a new age of unity and hope; the right to forge a future of freedom, progress and harmony, thus fulfilling the goal of the Alliance. On the reverse an outline of the Yugoslavian Province of Kosovo, denoting the area of conflict, is combined with a NATO star and highlighted compass cardinal points, signifying the Alliance participants who stabilized the region and provided massive relief. The inscription "IN DEFENSE OF HUMANITY" reinforces the objective of the action.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches in width. It is composed of the following vertical stripes: 1/2 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 7/64 inch Scarlet 67111; 5/32 inch White 67101; 7/64 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/2 inch Scarlet 67111.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Criteria

Service members must be bonafide members of a unit participating in or be engaged in direct support of the Operation for 30 consecutive days in the AOE or for 60 nonconsecutive days provided this support involves the entering the Operations AOE or meet one or more of the following criteria:

a. Be engaged in actual combat, or duty that is equally hazardous as combat duty, during the Operation with armed opposition, regardless of time in the AOE.

b. While participating in the Operation, regardless of time, is wounded or injured and required medical evacuation from the AOE.

c. While participating as regularly assigned aircrew member flying sorties into, out of, within, or over the AOE in direct support of the military operations.


Naval Vessels

The Secretary of Defense approved the award to the following Navy vessels as an exception to the 30 consecutive days within the Kosovo Air Campaign AOE criteria: USS Norfolk, USS Miami, USS Bose, USS Albuquerque, USS Nicholson, USS Philippine Sea, and USS Gonzalez.


Service Stars

One Bronze Service Star shall be worn on the suspension and service ribbon of the Kosovo Campaign Medal for qualified participation during campaign period (an individual who participated in one campaign would wear the Medal and/or Service Ribbon with one star). Meeting the qualification in each of the two campaigns would warrant the Medal and two Bronze Service Stars. However, if an individual's 30 or 60 days began in one campaign and carried over into the 2d campaign, they would only qualify for the Kosovo Campaign Medal and one Service Star.


Components

The following are authorized components of the Kosovo Campaign Medal.

a. Decoration (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/269A.

b. Decoration (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/269A.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/532.

d. Lapel Button: MIL-DTL-11484-266.


Background

The Kosovo Campaign Medal was established by Executive Order 13154, dated 3 May 2000 to recognize the accomplishments of military service members who participated in or was in direct support of the Kosovo Operations.

The Kosovo Campaign Medal will be worn in chronological sequence after the Southwest Asia Service Medal or after the last Service Award. Order of precedence and wear policy for service medals awarded to Army personnel is contained in Army Regulation (AR) 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority and supply of medals is contained in AR 600-8-22. The policy for display of campaign streamers on guidons/flags and supply of streamers is contained in chapter 9, 840-10.





Afghanistan Campaign Medal


Description

On a bronze metal 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in diameter above a range of mountains is a map of Afghanistan. Around the top is the inscription "AFGHANISTAN CAMPAIGN." On the reverse, a radiating demi-sun superimposed by an eagle's head couped. Inscribed across the bottom half of the reserve side are the three lines "FOR SERVICE" "IN" "AFGHANISTAN" all enclosed by a laurel wreath.


Symbolism

Mountains dominate the landscape of Afghanistan. The map of the country highlights the theater of operation and our commitment to Operation Enduring Freedom. The eagle, a symbol of the United States and the American spirit, is constantly vigilant, ready to defend freedom. The rising sun embodies a new start for Afghanistan and its road to a free and prosperous future. The laurel wreath is for honor and high achievement. The ribbon reflects the colors of the new Afghanistan flag and the red, white and blue represent the United States and its allies.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 5/64 inch Emerald 67128; 3/16 inch Scarlet 67111; 1/8 inch Black 67138; 7/32 inch White 67101; 1/32 inch Scarlet 67111; 1/32 inch White 67101; 1/32 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/32 inch White 67101; 1/32 inch Scarlet 67111; 7/32 inch White 67101; 1/8 inch Black 67138; 3/16 inch Scarlet 67111; 5/64 inch Emerald 67128.


Criteria
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Components

The following are authorized components and related items:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/318D. NSN 8455-01-527-8027 for set which includes regular size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/318D. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/593. Available commercially.

d. Lapel Button (ribbon replica): MIL-DTL-11484/312. Available commercially.


Background

Public Law 108-234, dated 28 May 2004 and Executive Order 13363, dated 29 November 2004, established the medal. The Office of the Under Secretary of Defense announced the establishment of campaign phases on 19 February 2008.

In order of precedence, the ACM will be worn before the Iraq Campaign Medal (ICM) and shall directly follow the Kosovo Campaign Medal (KCM) (i.e., KCM, ACM, ICM, GWOTEM, etc.).

Order of precedence and wear policy for service medals awarded to Army personnel is contained in Army Regulation (AR) 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority and supply of medals is contained in AR 600-8-22. The policy for display of campaign streamers on guidons/flags and supply of streamers is contained in Chapter 9, AR 840-10.





Iraq Campaign Medal


Description

On a bronze metal 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in diameter the relief of Iraq, surmounted by two lines throughout, surmounting a palm wreath. Above is the inscription "IRAQ CAMPAIGN." On the reverse, the Statue of Freedom surmounting a sunburst, encircled by two scimitars points down crossed at tip of blades, all above the inscription "FOR SERVICE IN IRAQ."


Symbolism
The relief of Iraq represents the area of operation. The lines symbolize the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, recalling Iraq's title as "the land of two rivers." The palm wreath denotes peace and honor. The Statue of Freedom represents the ideals and goals of the United States army to bring stability and improve the way of life for Iraq. The sunburst symbolizes hope and success. The two scimitars recall the swords erected by Sadam Hussein during his reign; the points down symbolize the goal for freedom of the Iraqi people, after the fall of Hussein. The ribbon reflects the colors of the Iraq flag. Green is the traditional color for Islam. Red honors the fighting courage for the pursuit of freedom. White denotes generosity and black exemplifies Islam's success.

Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 5/32 inch Scarlet 67111; 1/16 inch White 67101; 1/32 inch Green 67129; 1/16 inch White 67101; 5/32 inch Black 67138; 7/16 inch Chamois 67142; 5/32 inch Black 67138; 1/16 inch White 67101; 1/32 inch Green 67129; 1/16 inch White 67101; 5/32 inch Scarlet 67111.


Criteria
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Components
The following are authorized components and related items:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/319B. NSN 8455-01-527-8023 for set which includes regular size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/319B. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/594. Available commercially.

d. Lapel Button (ribbon replica): MIL-DTL-11484/313. Available commercially.


Background

Public Law 108-234, dated 28 May 2004 and Executive Order 13363, dated 29 November 2004, established the medal. The Office of the Under Secretary of Defense announced the establishment of campaign phases on 19 February 2008.

In order of precedence, the ICM will be worn before the Global War On Terrorism Medal (GWOTEM) and shall directly follow the Afghanistan Campaign Medal (ACM) (i.e., KCM, ACM, ICM, GWOTEM, etc.).

Order of precedence and wear policy for service medals awarded to Army personnel is contained in Army Regulation (AR) 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority and supply of medals is contained in AR 600-8-22. The policy for display of campaign streamers on guidons/flags and supply of streamers is contained in Chapter 9, AR 840-10.





Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal


Description

On a bronze disc 1-1/4 inches (3.18cm) in diameter within a textural  circle, a quatrefoil with an erect dagger enfiled by a scorpion held by a mailed hand and arched above and on either side of the scorpion's tail, the words "INHERENT RESOLVE" and centered below, the word "CAMPAIGN."

On the reverse side, a single arabesque polygonal star surrounding radiating points from the center, superimposed by an eagle perched on a rectangle with wings expanded and inverted, inscribed "FOR SERVICE.''


Symbolism
The scorpion, symbolic for treachery and destruction, is found on most major land masses. The dagger alludes to swiftness and determination. The eagle represents the United States and is symbolic of might and victory. The decorated star panels are common in the Arabian and Moorish styles of ornamentation.

Ribbon
The ribbon is blue, teal, sand and orange. This color combination is inspired by the colors of the Middle East landscape and the Ishtar Gate, the eighth gate leading to the historic inner city of Babylon.

Footnote:
It is not atypical to describe a medal design in a general concept without referencing every symbol in explicit detail. In the case of the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal, the scorpion represents a predator arachnid that is often found in arid desert climates. The sword or dagger is a defensive weapon used to guard against and protect from dangerous elements. When combining these two symbols into the design of a military campaign medal, they represent the defense of freedom, liberty and justice from those predators who would infringe on those values considered sacred to a free and orderly society. The mailed hand clutching the dagger represents strength and courage in the defense of liberty and freedom. This armored hand is widely used in military heraldry for this purpose.




Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal


Description

A bronze color metal disc 1 1/4 inches in diameter, charged with a shield adapted from the Great Seal of the United States surmounting two swords hilts to base saltirewise enclosed within a wreath of laurel; overall an eagle, wings displayed, grasping in its claws a serpent. On the reverse, the eagle, serpent and swords from the front of the medal with the encircling inscription "WAR ON TERRORISM EXPEDITIONARY MEDAL."


Symbolism

The shield and eagle represent the United States. The swords denote readiness and the resolve to fight international terrorism, which is symbolized by the serpent crushed in the eagle's claws. The wreath denotes honor and achievement.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 5/32 inch Bluebird 67117; 3/32 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/16 inch White 67101; 3/32 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/16 inch Bluebird 67117; 1/16 inch Golden Yellow 67104; 1/16 inch Bluebird 67117; 3/16 inch Scarlet 67111; 1/16 inch Bluebird 67117; 1/16 inch Golden Yellow 67104; 1/16 inch Bluebird 67117; 3/32 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/16 inch White 67101, 3/32 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 5/32 inch Bluebird 67117.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components and related items:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/307B. NSN 8455-01-506-7144 for set which includes regular size medal and ribbon bar.

Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/307B. Available commercially.

Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/579. Available commercially.

Lapel Button (ribbon replica): MIL-DTL-11484/295. Available commercially.


Background

On 20 September 2002, the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense, requested the Institute provide suggested designs. This was accomplished and the design was selected on 7 January 2003. Executive Order 13289, dated 12 March 2003, signed by President Bush, established this medal. The Office of The Under Secretary of Defense approved additions to the designated geographical areas of eligibility on 21 March 2005 and 29 December 2006.

In order of precedence, the GWOTEM will be worn before the GWOTSM and both shall directly follow the Kosovo Campaign Medal (KCM) (i.e., KCM, GWOTEM, GWOTSM, KDSM, etc.).

Soldiers may receive both the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (GWOTEM) and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (GWOTSM) if they meet the requirements of both awards; however, the same period of service establishing eligibility for one cannot be used to justify service eligibility for the other.

Order of precedence and wear policy for service medals awarded to Army personnel is contained in Army Regulation (AR) 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority and supply of medals is contained in AR 600-8-22. The policy for display of campaign streamers on guidons/flags and supply of streamers is contained in Chapter 9, 840-10.





Global War on Terrorism Service Medal


Description

A bronze color metal disc 1 1/4 inches in diameter, charged with an eagle, wings displayed, with a stylized shield of thirteen vertical bars on its breast and holding in dexter claw an olive branch and in sinister claw three arrows, all in front of a terrestrial globe with the inscription above "WAR ON TERRORISM SERVICE MEDAL." On the reverse is a laurel wreath on a plain field.


Symbolism

The eagle and shield, adapted from the Great Seal, represent the United States. They protect the globe above and behind, symbolizing American resolve to combat and overcome global elements of international terrorism. The laurel wreath represents the drive for peace. The three arrows signify vigilance, resolve and peace.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 5/32 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/8 inch Golden Yellow 67104; 1/8 inch Scarlet 67111; 1/16 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/16 inch White 67101; 5/16 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/16 inch White 67101; 1/16 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/8 inch Scarlet 67111; 1/8 inch Golden Yellow 67104; 5/32 inch Old Glory Blue 67178.


Criteria
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Components

The following are authorized components and related items:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/308C. NSN 8455-01-506-7170 for set which includes regular size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/308C. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/580. Available commercially.

d. Lapel Button (ribbon replica): MIL-DTL-11484/296. Available commercially.


Background

On 20 September 2002, the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense, requested the Institute provide suggested designs. This was accomplished and the design was selected on 7 January 2003. Executive Order 13289, dated 12 March 2003, signed by President Bush, established this medal.

In order of precedence, the GWOTEM will be worn before the GWOTSM and both shall directly follow the Kosovo Campaign Medal (KCM) (i.e., KCM, GWOTEM, GWOTSM, KDSM, etc.).

Soldiers may receive both the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (GWOTEM) and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (GWOTSM) if they meet the requirements of both awards; however, the same period of service establishing eligibility for one cannot be used to justify service eligibility for the other.

Order of precedence and wear policy for service medals awarded to Army personnel is contained in Army Regulation (AR) 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority and supply of medals is contained in AR 600-8-22. The policy for display of campaign streamers on guidons/flags and supply of streamers is contained in Chapter 9, 840-10.





Korea Defense Service Medal


Description

A Bronze medal 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in diameter bearing a Korean circle dragon within an encircling scroll inscribed "KOREA DEFENSE SERVICE MEDAL" with, in base, two sprigs, laurel to dexter side, bamboo in sinister. On the reverse, is a representation of the land mass of Korea surmounted by two swords points up saltirewise within a circlet garnished of five points.


Symbolism

The four-clawed dragon is a traditional symbol of Korea and represents intelligence and strength of purpose. The sprig of laurel denotes honorable endeavor and victory, the bamboo refers to the land of Korea.

The swords placed saltirewise over a map of Korea signify defense of freedom in that country and the readiness to engage in combat to that end. The circlet enclosing the device recalls the form of five-petal symbols common in Korean armory.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/4 inch Green 67129; 1/16 inch White 67101; 3/32 inch Green 67129; 1/16 inch Golden Yellow 67104; 3/32 inch Green 67129; center 1/4 inch Ultramarine Blue 67118; 3/32 inch Green 67129; 1/16 inch Golden Yellow 67104; 3/32 inch Green 67129; 1/16 inch White 67101; 1/4 inch Green 67129.


Requirements

The Korea Defense Service Medal (KDSM) is authorized to members of the Armed Forces who have served on active duty in support of the defense of the Republic of Korea from 28 July 1954 to a date to be determined. The area of eligibility encompasses all land area of the Republic of Korea, and the contiguous water out to 12 nautical miles, and all air spaces above the land and water areas.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components and related items:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/311C. NSN 8455-01-512-7138 for set which includes regular size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/311C. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/585. Available commercially.

d. Lapel Button (ribbon replica): MIL-DTL-11484/299. Available commercially.


Background

Congress ordered the creation of the medal in Section 543 of the 2003 Defense Authorization Act, which President Bush signed into law on 2 December 2002 (Public Law 107-314). The Institute was asked to provide proposed designs which were forwarded to OSD on 21 February 2003. The medal selected on 3 March 2003, was designed by Mr. John Sproston.

In order of precedence the KDSM will be worn below the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (GWOTSM) and above the Armed Forces Service Medal (AFSM).

Order of precedence and wear policy for service medals awarded to Army personnel is contained in Army Regulation (AR) 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority and supply of medals is contained in AR 600-8-22.





Mexican Border Defense Medal


Description

Obverse. A bronze metal disc 1-1/4 inches in diameter, consisting of a sheathed Roman sword hanging on a table which is inscribed “FOR SERVICE ON THE MEXICAN BORDER” and all surrounded by a laurel wreath.

Reverse. The Coat of Army of the United States above a scroll surrounded by a wreath ending at the center with crossed rifles in dexter, crossed sabers in sinister, and crossed cannons in base.

Ribbon. A ribbon 1-3/8 inches in width consisting of the following stripes from left to right: 7/16-inch Emerald Green, 1/2-inch Golden Yellow, 7/16-inch Emerald Green.

Criteria. See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Components:

a. Medal. MIL-DTL-3943/193.

b. Ribbon. MIL-DTL-11589/93.

Background:

a. The Mexican Border Service Medal was established by Act of Congress (Public Law 193, 65th Congress) on July 9, 1918.

b. The Roman sword symbolizes war or military strength and is sheathed to indicate service in the United States rather than in actual combat. The wreath represents achievement. The rifles, sabers, and cannons represent the Infantry, Cavalry, and Artillery. The ribbon colors are the same as used in the Mexican Border Service Medal.





Armed Forces Service Medal


Description

A Bronze medal, 1 1/4 inches in diameter with a demi-torch (as on the Statue of Liberty) encircled at the top by the inscription "ARMED FORCES SERVICE MEDAL" on the obverse side. On the reverse side is an eagle (as on the seal of the Department of Defense) between a wreath of laurel in base and the inscription "IN PURSUIT OF DEMOCRACY" at the top.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/16 inch Goldenlight 67107; 1/8 inch Jungle Green 67191; 1/8 inch Green 67129; 1/8 inch Mosstone Green 67127; 1/8 inch Goldenlight 67107; Center 1/4 inch Bluebird 67117; 1/8 inch Goldenlight 67107; 1/8 inch Mosstone Green 67127; 1/8 inch Green 67129; 1/8 inch Jungle Green 67191; and 1/16 inch Goldenlight 67107.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components and related items:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/251. NSN 8455-01-426-5479 for set which includes a regular size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/251. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/13. Available commercially.


Background

On 2 March 1995, the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Force Management Policy) (OASD-RMP) requested that The Institute of Heraldry prepare a medal and ribbon design for the proposed Armed Forces Service Medal. This medal was to be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who participated as members of units involved in military operations of significant numbers with no foreign armed opposition or the threat of imminent hostile action. This medal is intended to meet a void in the criteria between the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and the Humanitarian Service Medal.

Proposed design was forwarded by OASD-FMP to the Services and the Joint Staff. Concurrence in the establishment of the medal from the Services and the Joint Staff was received and the proposal was forwarded to the Office of Budget and Management (OMB) for issuance of an Executive Order. The medal was authorized by Executive Order 12985, dated 11 January 1996.

The AFSM shall take precedence immediately after the Southwest Asia Service Medal.





Humanitarian Service Medal


Description

A Bronze medal, 1 ¼ inches in diameter, surmounted by an open hand, palm up, extending to the upper left. On the reverse is a sprig of oak in a left oblique slant between the inscription "FOR HUMANITARIAN SERVICE" in three horizontal lines, and "UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES" in an arc around the base.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 3/16 inch Imperial Purple 67161; 1/16 inch White 67101; 5/16 inch Bluebird 67117; 1/4 inch Flag Blue 67124; 5/16 inch Bluebird; 1/16 inch White; and 3/16 inch Imperial Purple.


Criteria
See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.

Components

The following are authorized components of the Humanitarian Service Medal:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/240. NSN 8455-01-063-4674 for set containing full size medal and ribbon bar.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/240. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/233. Available commercially.

d. Lapel Button: MIL-DTL-11484/122. Available commercially.


Background

The Humanitarian Service Medal was established by President Ford per Executive Order 11965, dated 19 January 1977. The order provided for award for participation in a military operation of a humanitarian nature subsequent to 1 April 1975. The policy and award criteria for the Humanitarian Service Medal was established by Department of Defense Directive 1348.25, dated 23 June 1977.

Proposed medals were submitted to the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) for approval 18 April 1977 and the selected design was approved by OSD on 10 May 1977. The design by Mr. Jay Morris, The Institute of Heraldry, uses the outstretched hand with palm up as the international symbol for aid and assistance. On the reverse, the oak sprig is symbolic of strength imparted through a selfless mission to aid mankind. The color purple in the ribbon stands for self-sacrifice, white for regeneration and blue for universal friendship. In addition, the two shades of blue are the colors used in the flags of OSD.

A bronze star is worn on the ribbon to indicate subsequent awards of the Humanitarian Service Medal.

Designated operations for which the Humanitarian Service Medal may be awarded are listed in DOD Manual 1348.33 (M).





Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal


Description

A Bronze medal, 1 1/4 inches in diameter bearing on the obverse, five annulets interlaced enfiled by a star and environed by a wreath of laurel. On the reverse is a sprig of oak between the inscription "OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER SERVICE" at the top and "UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES" at the bottom.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/8 inch Bluebird 67117; 1/8 inch Goldenlight 67107; 3/16 inch Bluebird; 1/16 inch Green 67129; 5/32 inch Goldenlight; center 1/16 inch Green; 5/32 inch Goldenlight; 1/16 inch Green; 3/16 inch Bluebird; 1/8 inch Goldenlight; and 1/8 inch Bluebird.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are authorized components of the MOVSM:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/160C. NSN 8455-01-400-3295.

b. Medal (miniature size): MIL-DTL-3943/160C. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/374. Available commercially.

d. Lapel Button: MIL-DTL-11484.


Background

The Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal was established by Executive Order 12830, dated 9 January 1993. A proposed design, prepared by The Institute of Heraldry, was submitted to the Office of the Secretary of Defense on 12 April 1993. The design was approved by the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Military Manpower and Personnel Policy on 15 Jun 1993.

The interlaced annulets emphasize the interaction of the military services with the civilian community and symbolize continuity and cooperation. The star commemorates outstanding service; the wreath of laurel denotes honor and achievement. Oak is symbolic of strength and potential. Medium blue is the color traditionally associated with the Department of Defense. Gold is for excellence and green alludes to the nurturing of life and growth.





Armed Forces Reserve Medal


Description

A Bronze medal 1 ¼ inches in diameter, with a flaming torch in front of a crossed powder horn and a bugle within a circle composed of thirteen stars and thirteen rays. On the reverse is a different design for each of the reserve components. The reverse of all medals have the inscription "ARMED FORCES RESERVE" around the rim. Organized Reserve: On a wreath, the Lexington Minuteman statue as it stands on the Common in Lexington, Massachusetts encircled by thirteen stars. National Guard: The National Guard insignia (two crossed fasces superimposed on an eagle displayed with wings reversed. Air Force Reserve: The crest from the Air Forces seal (on a wreath, an eagle displayed in front of a cloud form). Naval Reserve: The center device of the Department of the Navy seal (an eagle displayed on an anchor in front of a ship in full sail). Marine Corps Reserve: The Marine Corps insignia (eagle perched on a globe superimposed on an anchor). Coast Guard Reserve: The central design of the Coast Guard seal (crossed anchors superimposed by a shield within an annulet).


Devices

Bronze hourglass to indicate 10 years service; silver hourglass to indicate 20 years service; gold hourglass to indicate 30 years service; letter "M" to indicate mobilization in support of US Military operations or contingencies designated by the Secretary of Defense; and a numeral to indicate number of times mobilized.


Ribbon

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 1/16 inch Bluebird 67117; 1/32 inch Chamois 67142; 1/16 inch Bluebird; 1/32 inch Chamois; 1/16 inch Bluebird; 3/8 inch Chamois; center 1/8 inch Bluebird; 3/8 inch Chamois; 1/16 inch Bluebird; 1/32 inch Chamois; 1/16 inch Bluebird; 1/32 inch Chamois; and 1/16 inch Bluebird.


Criteria

See Army Regulation 600-8-22, Military Awards.


Components

The following are components of the Armed Forces Reserve Medal:

a. Medal (regular size): MIL-DTL-3943/231. (Stock number for the full size medal set with ribbon bar.) National Guard: NSN 8455-00-227-1713; USAR: 8455-00-269-5781.

b. Medal (miniature): MIL-DTL-3943/231. Available commercially.

c. Ribbon: MIL-DTL-11589/13. NSN 8455-00-265-4916.


Background

The Armed Forces Reserve Medal was authorized by President Truman by Executive Order 10163, dated 25 September 1950. The Executive Order was amended by Executive Order, dated 6 August 1996, to include authorization for award based on mobilization.


Wear

If no "M" device is authorized, the appropriate hourglass shall be positioned in the center of the ribbon. If no hourglass is authorized, the "M" device shall be positioned in the center of the ribbon, followed by (worn to the wearer's left of the "M" device) Arabic numerals indicating the number of times the device has been awarded, starting with the second award (no number is worn for the first award). If worn alone, the 'M" device is centered. If both the hourglass and the "M" device are awarded, the "M" device is centered on the ribbon and the hourglass is worn to the wearer?s right. If a numeral is worn, it is placed on the ribbon to the wearer's left, with the "M" device in the center and the hourglass to the wearer's right.





Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal (Air Force)


Description/Symbolism

Obverse: On a bronze disc with a narrow border one and a quarter inches in diameter, a laurel wreath surmounted by an atomic symbol In the center of the atomic symbol is a five-pointed star bearing a disc

Bronze conveys the honorary recognition of high performance while contributing to the success of the US strategic nuclear deterrence mission The laurel wreath symbolizes achievement, recognizing the Active, Air National Guard and Reserve forces who support nuclear deterrence The atomic symbol indicates the core responsibility of nuclear prevention The star with the disc denotes the Air Force

Reverse: The circular inscription ''NUCLEAR DETERRENCE OPERATIONS SERVICE,'' which follows the contour of the medal, separated at the base by a triangle In the center, beneath the inscription ''U S / AIR FORCE'' is a five-pointed star, point up, with wings extending from the upper horizontal arms of the star

The triangle alludes to the nuclear triad, signifying the categories of nuclear arsenal: bombs, intercontinental missile and ballistic missiles The five-pointed star with wings is the Hap Arnold symbol and represents the Air Force


Ribbon
The ribbon is blue with red, green and gold stripes Blue represents nuclear dominance of the sky; red represents power and passion in providing nuclear deterrence; green represents earth and global capability, and the gold represents the participating personnel, the wealth of our nuclear enterprise

Devices
The ''N'' device and the Oak Leaf Cluster for subsequent awards

Criteria
See AFI36-2803 (Air Force Military Awards and Decorations Program)

Background

The Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal was established by the Secretary of the Air Force on May 27, 2014 to recognize direct support to nuclear deterrence operations The medal is authorized for Airmen who have directly impacted the nuclear enterprise and may be awarded for eligible service from December 27, 1991 to fully qualified Airmen in various career fields





Navy Arctic Service Medal


Description

Obverse. A silver metal disc 1-1/4 inches in diameter, consisting of a stylized representation of the Arctic Circle bearing at center the North Star and at top a stacked and arching dove-tailed scroll bearing the inscriptions “ARCTIC” on the upper portion and “SERVICE” on the lower portion.

Reverse. On the reverse above the inscription “FOR SERVICE INVOLVING SIGNIFICANT OPERATIONS IN HIGH LATITUDE REGIONS ABOVE THE ARCTIC CIRCLE,” a stylized representation of three icebergs in the Arctic Sea all in front of a rayed night sky bearing a representation of the Big Dipper constellation.

Ribbon. A ribbon 1-3/8 inches in width consisting of the following stripes from left to right: 5/16 inch Oriental Blue, 1/16 inch Ostende Blue, 1/16 Forget-me-not Blue, 1/8 inch White, 1/32 inch Forget-me-not Blue, 1/32 inch Ostende Blue, 1/32 inch Oriental Blue, 1/16 inch Navy Blue at center, 1/32 inch Oriental Blue, 1/32 inch Ostende Blue, 1/32 inch Forget-me-not Blue, 1/8 inch White, 1/16 inch Forget-me-not Blue, 1/16 inch Ostende Blue, 5/16 inch Oriental Blue.


Symbolism

Medal. Silver highlights the icy, cold conditions of polar regions. The Arctic Circle indicates the area of military operations for personnel awarded the medal. The North Star, Polaris, is historically used by military forces for precise orientation and navigation. On the reverse the radiating lines behind the icebergs suggest the Northern Lights of the Navy arctic area of operation. The Big Dipper honors the origins of naval navigation. The dark blue of the ribbon is for the Navy and the remaining blues represent the waters of the Arctic Sea. The ribbon’s white portions indicate snow and ice.





Air Force Remote Combat Effects Campaign Medal


Description

Obverse. A bronze color 1 ¼” (3.18cm) metal disc bearing a starburst surmounted by a grid-lined and edged sphere featuring a contrail emanating from below the sphere, wrapping around upward from the base, through the center and terminating in a beveled delta shape; overall, a stylized representation of the U.S. Air Force “Hap Arnold” symbol in base.

Reverse. Within the circular inscription, “COMBAT EFFECTS CAMPAIGN” above and “UNITED STATES AIR FORCE” below, a “Hap Arnold” symbol above a stacked inscription that reads “REMOTE COMBAT SUPPORT”. A pair of beveled deltas flank the circular inscription.

Ribbon. Blue, white, and light blue represent the U.S. Air Force.


Symbolism

Obverse. The starburst behind the grid-lined sphere conveys power and the ability to remotely effect the battlefield, anywhere in the world. The delta followed by the contrail portrays the remotely piloted aircraft and weapons systems. The Hap Arnold symbol denotes the U.S. Air Force.

Reverse. The deltas portray remotely piloted aircraft and weapons systems. The Hap Arnold symbol denotes the U.S. Air Force.






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