Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal

The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (AFEM) is a military award that recognizes members of the U.S. Armed Forces who participate in significant military operations where hostile action was imminent. Here is a detailed overview of the AFEM, including its history, eligibility criteria, related regulations, and more. **History and Authorization** The AFEM was established by Executive Order 10977 on July 1, 1958, and it recognizes the participation of U.S. service members in specific military operations that have been authorized by the Joint Staff. The criteria and potential operations for which the AFEM may be awarded are designated by this staff【4:2†source】【4:4†source】. **Criteria and Eligibility** The AFEM is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces under the following conditions: 1. **Participation as Part of a Military Unit:** The service member must participate as part of a U.S. military unit in a significant military operation that includes members from multiple military departments. 2. **Encounter Hostile Action:** The service member must either encounter foreign armed opposition during participation or be in a position where hostile action was imminent【4:4†source】【4:5†source】. **Categories of Operations** The AFEM can be awarded for three categories of operations: - U.S. military operations. - U.S. operations supporting the United Nations. - U.S. operations assisting friendly foreign nations【4:4†source】【4:5†source】. **Degree of Participation** To be eligible for the AFEM, service members must meet one of the following conditions: - Serve 30 or more consecutive days in the Area of Eligibility (AOE). - Engage in direct support of the operation for 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days, involving entry into the AOE. - Serve for the full duration of the operation if it lasts less than 30 days. - Participate in combat engagement, regardless of time spent in the AOE. - Be killed or wounded requiring medical evacuation from the AOE, which includes non-combat wounds. - Participate as a regularly assigned aircrew member flying sorties into, out of, within, or over the AOE in direct support of the operation【4:4†source】【4:5†source】. Members of rear echelons, transients, observers, and those on short terms of temporary duty are usually not eligible unless a commanding officer certifies significant contributions by an individual【4:3†source】. **Subsequent Awards and Devices** Service members can receive the AFEM for each distinct operation if eligible. Each subsequent award is denoted by a bronze star on the medal's ribbon; a silver star is used in lieu of five bronze stars【4:16†source】. The FMF Combat Operations Insignia can also be worn if applicable【4:16†source】. **Notable Recipients** While specific names of notable recipients may vary, the medal has been awarded to service members who participated in various significant military operations over the years. These operations cover a range of conflicts, such as the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and operations supporting military actions under the auspices of international organizations【4:5†source】【4:16†source】. In summary, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is a significant recognition for U.S. service members involved in direct military operations under dangerous conditions, thus symbolizing their commitment and service. Its issuance is carefully regulated, ensuring that only those who meet strict eligibility criteria receive this honor.