5 GWOT Medal Facts
Introduction to the Global War on Terrorism Medal
The Global War on Terrorism Medal (GWOTM) is a United States military award that was established in 2003 by President George W. Bush. The medal is awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who have participated in the War on Terror, which includes operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. The GWOTM is one of the most commonly awarded medals in the US military, with over 1 million recipients to date. In this article, we will explore 5 key facts about the GWOT Medal.
Fact 1: Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the GWOTM, service members must have participated in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) or Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) for a minimum of 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days. This can include service in combat zones, as well as support roles in rear echelon areas. The medal can also be awarded to service members who have participated in counter-terrorism operations outside of these designated areas.
Fact 2: Medal Design
The GWOTM features a bronze medal with a global map on the obverse (front) side, surrounded by the words “GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM” and “SERVICE” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”. The reverse side features an eagle perched on a shield, with the words “FREEDOM AND JUSTICE” inscribed above. The medal is suspended from a ribbon with a red, white, and blue stripe pattern.
Fact 3: Service and Campaign Stars
The GWOTM can be awarded with service stars or campaign stars, which are small bronze or silver stars that are attached to the ribbon. These stars indicate the number of times the service member has participated in a specific campaign or operation. For example, a service member who has participated in OEF and OIF would be eligible to wear two service stars on their GWOTM ribbon.
Fact 4: Devices and Clasps
In addition to service stars, the GWOTM can also be awarded with devices or clasps, which are small metal or ribbon attachments that indicate specific achievements or qualifications. For example, a service member who has participated in combat operations may be eligible to wear a Combat Action Badge or a Valor Device on their GWOTM ribbon.
Fact 5: GWOTM vs. GWOTEM
It’s worth noting that there are two separate medals related to the War on Terror: the Global War on Terrorism Medal (GWOTM) and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (GWOTEM). The GWOTEM is awarded to service members who have participated in expeditionary operations outside of the United States, while the GWOTM is awarded to service members who have participated in support roles or non-expeditionary operations. The two medals have different eligibility criteria and are not interchangeable.
👉 Note: The GWOTM and GWOTEM are both authorized for wear on US military uniforms, but the specific wear guidelines may vary depending on the service branch and uniform regulations.
In summary, the Global War on Terrorism Medal is an important award that recognizes the service and sacrifices of US military personnel who have participated in the War on Terror. By understanding the eligibility criteria, medal design, and devices and clasps associated with the GWOTM, service members and veterans can better appreciate the significance of this award.
What is the Global War on Terrorism Medal?
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The Global War on Terrorism Medal is a US military award established in 2003 to recognize service members who have participated in the War on Terror.
How do I know if I’m eligible for the GWOTM?
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To be eligible for the GWOTM, you must have participated in Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom for a minimum of 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days.
What is the difference between the GWOTM and GWOTEM?
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The GWOTM is awarded to service members who have participated in support roles or non-expeditionary operations, while the GWOTEM is awarded to service members who have participated in expeditionary operations outside of the United States.