Armed Forces Service Medal

Background

This award, authorized by Executive Order 12985, Jan. 11, 1996, is awarded to members of the armed forces of the U.S. who, after June 1, 1992: (1) participate, or have participated, as members of U.S. military units, in a U.S. military operation that is deemed to be a significant activity by the Joint Chiefs of Staff; and (2) encounter no foreign armed opposition or imminent threat of hostile action.

Criteria

Refer to DOD 1348.33 Vol 2 and/or the Armed Forces Service Medal (AFSM) - Approved Operations for specific individual eligibility requirements and announced operations.

Medal description

On the obverse, in the center of a bronze medallion one and three-eighths inches in diameter, a demi-torch (as on the Statue of Liberty) is shown encircled at the top by the inscription: “Armed Forces Service Medal.” The torch, adapted from the Statue of Liberty, represents the principles of democracy as well as leadership and guidance.

On the reserve, in the center of a bronze medallion one and three-eighths inches in diameter, an eagle (as on the seal of the Department of Defense) is shown between a wreath of laurel at the base and the inscription: “In Pursuit Of Democracy” at the top. The eagle, adapted from the seal of the Department of Defense, reflects the scope of the award and its applicability. Laurel is for honor and achievement.

The medal is suspended from a ribbon one and three-eighths inches in width consisting of the following stripes: 1/16" Goldenlight; 1/8" Bottle (Jungle) Green; 1/8" Green; 1/8" Mosstone; 1/8" Goldenlight; 1/4" Bluebird; 1/8" Goldenlight; 1/8" Mosstone; 1/8" Green; 1/8" Bottle (Jungle) Green; and 1/16" Goldenlight.

Green denotes life and growth; medium blue is the color used by the Department of Defense, and gold is for honor.

Authorized device

Service Star