What is an Armed Forces Service Medal Veteran?
The United States Armed Forces have a long history of recognizing and rewarding the service and sacrifices of its members. One such recognition is the Armed Forces Service Medal (AFSM), which is awarded to service members who have deployed or served in a specific operation or area of operations. In this article, we will explore what it means to be an Armed Forces Service Medal veteran and the significance of this medal.
What is the Armed Forces Service Medal?
The Armed Forces Service Medal is a military award that is presented to members of the United States Armed Forces who have served in a designated area of operations or participated in a specific military operation. The medal was established in 1996 and is awarded to service members who have deployed or served in a variety of operations, including:
• Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm (1990-1991)
• Operation Restore Hope (1992-1994)
• Operation Uphold Democracy (1994-1995)
• Operation Joint Endeavor (1995-1996)
• Operation Allied Force (1999)
• Operation Enduring Freedom (2001-2014)
• Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003-2011)
• Operation New Dawn (2010-2011)
• Operation Inherent Resolve (2014-present)
The Armed Forces Service Medal is typically awarded to service members who have served for at least 30 days in a designated area of operations or participated in a specific military operation. The medal is also awarded to personnel who have served on a military vessel or aircraft that was deployed to the area of operations.
Types of AFSM Awards
There are several types of Armed Forces Service Medal awards, including:
• Service Medal: This is the basic award, which is awarded to service members who have served in a designated area of operations.
• Bronze Service Star: This is an additional award that is worn on the ribbon of the AFSM, indicating multiple deployments or service in a specific area of operations.
• Combat "V": This is a bronze-colored "V" device that is worn on the AFSM to indicate combat service.
Eligibility for the AFSM
To be eligible for the Armed Forces Service Medal, service members must have served in a designated area of operations or participated in a specific military operation. The following service members are eligible for the AFSM:
• Active Duty: Service members who are currently serving in the Armed Forces and have deployed or served in a designated area of operations.
• Reserve and National Guard: Service members who are serving in the Reserve or National Guard and have deployed or served in a designated area of operations.
• Retirees: Retired service members who served in a designated area of operations during their active duty service.
Significance of the AFSM
The Armed Forces Service Medal is a significant recognition of service and sacrifice. The medal is a symbol of the service member’s commitment to the United States and their role in supporting national security and foreign policy objectives. The AFSM is also a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and their families, including deployments, time away from home, and exposure to hazardous environments.
Table: AFSM Eligibility Criteria
| Service Member Type | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Active Duty | Deployed or served in a designated area of operations |
| Reserve and National Guard | Deployed or served in a designated area of operations |
| Retirees | Served in a designated area of operations during active duty service |
Conclusion
In conclusion, an Armed Forces Service Medal veteran is a service member who has served in a designated area of operations or participated in a specific military operation. The Armed Forces Service Medal is a significant recognition of service and sacrifice, and is awarded to service members who have made significant contributions to national security and foreign policy objectives. Whether serving on active duty, in the Reserve or National Guard, or as a retiree, service members who have received the AFSM are eligible for this prestigious award.
