Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait)

The Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait) is a military award that was established to recognize members of the U.S. Armed Forces who participated in operations to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi control during the Gulf War in 1990-1991. The following details provide a comprehensive overview of the medal, including its history, eligibility criteria, and notable recipients. **History**: The Kuwait Liberation Medal was created by the government of the State of Kuwait in recognition of the service rendered by military personnel during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. The medal is issued based on the criteria established by the Kuwaiti government and was authorized for U.S. service members by the Department of Defense. **Criteria and Eligibility**: 1. **Service Period**: To be eligible for the Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait), personnel must have participated in the liberation of the State of Kuwait during the period from August 7, 1990, to November 30, 1995. The following conditions also apply: - Personnel must have been assigned to a unit that participated in Operation Desert Shield or Operation Desert Storm. - They must have served in the area of operations (AOE) for a minimum of 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days. 2. **Qualifying Operations**: - The medal is awarded to those who engaged in combat or direct support roles, including personnel in a variety of capacities, whether in ground, naval, or air operations. 3. **Awarding Authority**: - The Secretary of the Navy has the authority to approve and document the award for Navy personnel, while the Commandant of the Marine Corps handles Marine Corps personnel. - The recipient's unit must be designated as having participated in operations qualifying for the award as established by the Secretary of Defense . **Components**: The medal consists of a medal and a ribbon. Upon receipt, no formal citation or certificate is issued; however, the award is documented in the service member’s official records. Participation in additional authorized operations can lead to subsequent award devices, such as a bronze or silver star, denoting further qualified service . **Notable Recipients**: The medal has been awarded to thousands of U.S. military personnel, including those who served in coalition forces. While specific individuals are not typically highlighted in formal award records, the medal acknowledges the dedicated service of all military members involved in the effort to restore Kuwait's sovereignty . **Conclusion**: The Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait) symbolizes the commitment and bravery of military personnel during a significant global conflict. Its establishment reflects the collaboration between the U.S. military and Kuwait in your defense against aggression and the restoration of peace and stability in the region. The award, along with its associated regulations, continues to serve as a testament to the valor and sacrifices made by U.S. service members during the Gulf War.