The U.S. Navy has announced significant updates to the eligibility criteria for the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (GWOTSM), alongside the closure of the National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) and changes to the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal (IRCM). These changes, effective September 11, 2022, mark a shift in how military service is recognized in the post-Afghanistan War era. This article breaks down the key updates, focusing on what service members need to know about the revised Gwot Service Medal eligibility.
Key Changes to GWOT Service Medal Eligibility
The most significant change is the narrowed scope of eligibility for the GWOTSM. Previously, a broader range of service qualified for this medal. Now, to be eligible for the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, service members must directly participate in designated military counter-terrorism (CT) operations.
This direct participation is defined by specific criteria:
- Minimum Service Duration: Service members must serve a minimum of 30 days (consecutive or non-consecutive) in a designated CT operation.
- Combat Engagement Regardless of Time Served: Even if the 30-day minimum is not met, service members are eligible if, while on active duty, they are engaged in physical combat with or by a foreign terrorist, or an individual inspired or motivated by a foreign terrorist organization.
Qualifying service examples include deployment on orders for a designated CT operation or providing full-time direct support to a designated CT operation while assigned to an organization conducting such operations. Crucially, the concept of “indirect support,” which previously warranted the GWOTSM, is no longer valid under these updated guidelines. This means that personnel in support roles not directly engaged in CT operations are no longer automatically eligible for the GWOT Service Medal.
National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) to Close
In addition to the GWOTSM changes, the announcement detailed the termination of the National Defense Service Medal. Effective December 31, 2022, the NDSM will no longer be authorized for service members entering active duty on or after September 11, 2001. The rationale behind this closure is that the United States is no longer engaged in combat operations on a scale comparable to those for which the NDSM was historically authorized. Service members supporting specific designated operations may still be eligible for campaign, expeditionary, or service medals associated with those particular operations.
Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal (IRCM) Eligibility Area Limited
Finally, the eligibility for the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal has also been geographically restricted. As of July 1, 2022, the IRCM eligibility area is limited to the country of Syria, including its airspace and contiguous waters extending 12 nautical miles.
Understanding the Impact of GWOT Service Medal Changes
These changes reflect a shift towards recognizing direct contributions to counter-terrorism efforts rather than broader support roles in the Global War on Terrorism. For service members, it is essential to understand these updated eligibility criteria for the GWOT Service Medal to ensure proper recognition for their service in designated counter-terrorism operations. The focus is now firmly on those directly engaged in the fight against terrorism, ensuring the GWOT Service Medal appropriately honors their specific contributions.
