Kosovo Campaign Medal

The Kosovo Campaign Medal (KCM) is a military award established to recognize members of the United States Armed Forces who participated in operations associated with the Kosovo conflict from March 24, 1999, to June 10, 1999, specifically during Operation Allied Force and related operations. **History and Purpose:** The Kosovo Campaign Medal was authorized to honor military personnel who served in support of NATO's intervention in the Kosovo War, which aimed to stop human rights abuses in the region by Serbian forces. The KCM symbolizes the sacrifices made by service members and serves to commemorate their contributions during this significant period of military engagement. **Eligibility Criteria:** To qualify for the Kosovo Campaign Medal, service members must have met specific criteria: - Participated in or were engaged in ground operations in Kosovo or the surrounding airspace from March 24, 1999, to June 10, 1999. - Service members must have been assigned to a qualifying unit or engaged in operations designated by the Secretary of the Navy. - The medal can be awarded to service members regardless of the qualification time, as participation in combat or per the operational command's directive suffices for eligibility. **Notable Features:** - **Award Elements:** The Kosovo Campaign Medal consists of a medal and ribbon. No citation or certificate is typically issued with it. - **Subsequent Awards:** If a service member participates in subsequent eligible operations, a bronze star is worn on the ribbon for each additional recognized operation, with a silver star representing five bronze stars. - **Authorized Devices:** Only bronze or silver stars signify subsequent awards. **Awarding Authority:** The KCM is awarded at the discretion of commanding officers (COs) who retain the authority to approve military awards. Documentation must reflect the service member's eligibility for the medal. **Conclusion:** The Kosovo Campaign Medal highlights the commitment and efforts of military personnel during a complex and critical operation in modern history. It stands as a recognition of their service and the principles of freedom and human rights they defended during the Kosovo conflict.