Global War on Terrorism Service Medal

The Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (GWOTSM) is a military award established to recognize U.S. Armed Forces members who have participated in or supported the Global War on Terrorism. The medal was authorized through Executive Order 13289 on March 12, 2003, effective from September 11, 2001, with an end date to be determined by the Secretary of Defense. The GWOTSM was created to honor those who served in support of various operations associated with the broader conflict against terrorism. Eligibility for the GWOTSM requires service members to have supported designated operations for at least 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days, unless they meet specific exceptions such as being involved in combat engagements or receiving wounds that necessitated medical evacuation. The operations that qualify are broad and span various regions without a specific geographic area of eligibility. For example, members assigned to a unit in support of operations like Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom may qualify. The awarding authority for the GWOTSM consists of commanding officers with the authority to award the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal. The award is recorded in the service member’s official service record, and no citation or certificate is issued. Instead, each medal consists of a ribbon and medal set. Subsequent awards of the GWOTSM can be denoted by the wear of bronze or silver stars on the ribbon. A bronze star represents each subsequent award, while a silver star can be worn in lieu of five bronze stars. Authorized devices such as the Fleet Marine Force Combat Operation Insignia may also be worn by personnel operating with Marine Corps forces. Notable recipients of the GWOTSM include service members who have distinguished themselves by their contributions during various military operations relating to the Global War on Terrorism, though specific names are not typically publicized. The GWOTSM's establishment reflects the U.S. military's recognition of the sustained efforts in combating terrorism and honors the service and sacrifices made by its members during this global conflict.