Multinational Force and Observers Medal

The Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) Medal is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who have participated in the Multinational Force and Observers, a peacekeeping mission established in 1982 to supervise the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel and ensure the security and independence of both nations. Eligibility for the MFO Medal is contingent upon the following criteria: 1. **Service Requirement**: Service members must have participated in operations with the Multinational Force and Observers for a minimum of 30 days. This can be continuous or aggregated service within a designated operational area (AOE) related to the MFO. 2. **Operations Involvement**: The service must be a part of units that have been officially assigned to the Multinational Force and Observers. Personnel who are classified as part of rear echelons, transients, observers, or those serving on temporary duty (TAD) or training duty, typically do not qualify unless their service is deemed significant by local commanders. 3. **Awarding Authority**: The authority to grant the MFO Medal rests with the commanders who have the authority to award the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (NAM). Such commanders may recommend the medal for personnel deemed eligible. 4. **Subsequent Awards**: Participation in a second or subsequent tour of duty within the Multinational Force and Observers is denoted by a bronze star on the ribbon. A silver star represents five bronze stars. 5. **Award Elements**: The MFO Medal is presented as a full-size medal and ribbon. Importantly, no citation or certificate is issued with this medal. Notable historical context includes the establishment of the MFO following the signing of the Camp David Accords, which sought to foster peace in the Middle East. The MFO operates under the framework of the United Nations but is independent of its control. This award not only recognizes the dedication and service of military personnel stationed in the AOE but also embodies the ongoing commitment to maintaining peace in a historically volatile region. The MFO has been awarded to military personnel from various nations participating in the peacekeeping mission, contributing to international collaboration in promoting stability.