Introduction to the GWOT Expeditionary Ribbon Award
The Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (GWOTEM) is a military award that was established by President George W. Bush in 2003. The award is presented to members of the United States Armed Forces who have participated in overseas operations against terrorism. The GWOTEM is one of the most recent additions to the list of military awards and decorations, and it is an important recognition of the sacrifices and contributions made by military personnel in the fight against terrorism.
Eligibility Criteria for the GWOTEM
To be eligible for the GWOTEM, military personnel must have participated in overseas operations against terrorism for a period of at least 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days. The operations must have taken place on or after September 11, 2001, and the personnel must have been assigned to a unit that was engaged in the operation. The award is not limited to combat personnel, and it can be presented to any member of the military who has supported the operation, including logistics, communications, and medical personnel.
Design and Symbolism of the GWOTEM
The GWOTEM is a bronze medal that features a globe on the obverse side, surrounded by two eagles that are clasping a sword. The reverse side of the medal features a laurel wreath that surrounds the inscription “War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal”. The medal is suspended from a ribbon that features a broad red stripe in the center, flanked by narrower stripes of gold, white, and blue. The design of the medal is intended to symbolize the global nature of the war on terrorism, as well as the bravery and sacrifice of the military personnel who are fighting it.
Related Awards and Decorations
The GWOTEM is one of several awards and decorations that are related to the war on terrorism. Other notable awards include the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, which is presented to military personnel who have supported the war on terrorism but have not participated in overseas operations. The Afghanistan Campaign Medal and the Iraq Campaign Medal are also related awards, which are presented to military personnel who have served in those countries as part of the war on terrorism.
Criteria for the GWOTEM Device
The GWOTEM can be awarded with a device, which is a small emblem that is attached to the ribbon. The device is awarded to military personnel who have participated in a specific operation or campaign, such as the Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom. The device is intended to recognize the specific contributions and sacrifices made by military personnel during these operations.
| Device | Operation |
|---|---|
| Arrowhead Device | Operation Enduring Freedom |
| Arrowhead Device | Operation Iraqi Freedom |
Presenting the GWOTEM
The GWOTEM is typically presented to military personnel in a formal ceremony, which may include the reading of a citation and the presentation of the medal and ribbon. The award is usually presented by a senior officer or a high-ranking government official, and it is often accompanied by a certificate and a copy of the citation.
🏆 Note: The GWOTEM is an important recognition of the sacrifices and contributions made by military personnel in the fight against terrorism, and it is a significant addition to the list of military awards and decorations.
Summary of Key Points
In summary, the GWOTEM is a military award that is presented to members of the United States Armed Forces who have participated in overseas operations against terrorism. The award is eligible to military personnel who have supported the operation, including logistics, communications, and medical personnel. The design of the medal symbolizes the global nature of the war on terrorism, as well as the bravery and sacrifice of the military personnel who are fighting it.
To finalize, the GWOT Expeditionary Ribbon Award is a notable recognition of the efforts and sacrifices made by military personnel in the global war on terrorism. It serves as a testament to their bravery, dedication, and commitment to protecting the nation and its interests. By understanding the criteria, design, and presentation of the award, we can appreciate the significance of this honor and the importance of recognizing the contributions of our military personnel.
What is the GWOTEM?
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The Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (GWOTEM) is a military award that was established by President George W. Bush in 2003 to recognize members of the United States Armed Forces who have participated in overseas operations against terrorism.
Who is eligible for the GWOTEM?
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Military personnel who have participated in overseas operations against terrorism for a period of at least 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days are eligible for the GWOTEM.
What is the design of the GWOTEM?
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The GWOTEM features a globe on the obverse side, surrounded by two eagles that are clasping a sword, and a laurel wreath on the reverse side that surrounds the inscription “War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal”.
