The Department of Defense (DoD) has authorized the Humanitarian Service Medal (HSM) for U.S. military service members, including both Active and Reserve components, who participated in qualifying Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) operations and activities. This announcement, initially released as MARADMIN 575/20, officially recognizes the crucial role military personnel played in humanitarian relief efforts during the pandemic. This article details the criteria for the Humanitarian Service Medal related to COVID-19, outlining eligibility, qualifying operations, and how to process nominations.
Understanding the Humanitarian Service Medal
The Humanitarian Service Medal is a prestigious individual military award of the United States Armed Forces. It is awarded to service members who perform commendable humanitarian service. This service is characterized by actions of a humanitarian nature in situations such as natural disasters, civil unrest, or other emergencies. The intent of the Humanitarian Service Medal is to recognize direct participation in significant military humanitarian operations.
Eligibility for the Humanitarian Service Medal in COVID-19 Operations
For the COVID-19 pandemic, the Humanitarian Service Medal is specifically intended for Marines who directly engaged in immediate humanitarian relief efforts. Eligibility is not automatic and requires meeting specific criteria:
- Direct Participation: Service members must have been physically present at a designated location and directly contributed to and influenced the humanitarian action. Supporting one’s own command, military community, or base does not qualify for the HSM, as these are considered command responsibilities.
- Deployment Requirement: Personnel must have deployed to a specific location under official orders to provide direct support to a significant COVID-19 operation for at least one day between January 31, 2020, and September 30, 2020.
- Individual Award: The HSM is an individual award, emphasizing direct, personal contributions to the humanitarian effort.
It’s important to note that eligibility for the Humanitarian Service Medal during the COVID-19 period is limited to activities occurring between January 31, 2020, and September 30, 2020. Activities outside this timeframe, even if related to COVID-19, are not covered under this specific authorization for the HSM.
Qualifying COVID-19 Operations for the HSM
The MARADMIN specifically identifies several qualifying operations where service members may be eligible for the Humanitarian Service Medal. These include:
- Task Force Northeast: Operations conducted under Task Force Northeast are recognized as qualifying activities.
- USNS MERCY (T-AH-19) Deployment: Personnel deployed to and involved in operations aboard the USNS MERCY hospital ship for COVID-19 relief are eligible.
- USNS COMFORT (T-AH-20) Deployment: Similarly, service members who participated in operations on the USNS COMFORT hospital ship are recognized for HSM eligibility.
- USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN-71) Readiness Restoration: The operations to restore the readiness of the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT aircraft carrier after a significant COVID-19 outbreak are also considered qualifying for the HSM.
Service members who participated in these specific operations, or others deemed qualifying under the guidelines, should consult their chain of command to determine if they are eligible for nomination.
Nomination and Submission Process for the HSM
The nomination process for the Humanitarian Service Medal for COVID-19 involves specific procedures to ensure proper recognition.
- Designated Endorser: Major subordinate commands with personnel involved in qualifying operations were required to identify a senior officer (O-6 or above) as a “Designated Endorser.” This officer is responsible for endorsing the list of eligible participants. Designated Endorsers were appointed for commands such as III MLG, Task Force North East, Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, and units involved with USNS COMFORT and USNS MERCY.
- Chain of Command: Service members believing they are eligible should work through their chain of command. Commanders can initiate recommendations and route them to the appropriate Designated Endorser.
- Submission via iAPS: Designated Endorsers are responsible for submitting the consolidated lists of eligible personnel to CMC (MMMA) using the Improved Awards Processing System (iAPS).
- Late Submissions: For individuals potentially overlooked, especially those who have left their command, late award recommendations can be submitted. These require a letter with supporting documentation (fitness reports, official orders, etc.) routed through the chain of command to the Designated Endorser and then to MMMA-2 at SMB(UNDERSCORE)HQMC(UNDERSCORE)PERS(UNDERSCORE)[email protected]. Late submissions must include endorsements from the chain of command up to the Designated Endorser.
CMC (MMMA) is the final approval authority for all HSMs related to COVID-19 operations. Approved awards are processed through the Marine Corps Total Force System (MCTFS), updating individual service records.
Important Considerations and Limitations
Several key limitations and considerations apply to the Humanitarian Service Medal for COVID-19:
- No Dual Awards: A service member cannot receive both the Armed Forces Service Medal (AFSM) and the Humanitarian Service Medal for the same COVID-19 activities. These are distinct awards for different types of service. However, Marines can earn both awards for separate, non-overlapping events meeting the criteria for each medal.
- Geographic Restrictions: The HSM will not be awarded for COVID-19 operations within a geographical area where a DoD or Department of the Navy campaign or expeditionary medal is already authorized (e.g., IRCM, ACM).
- One HSM per Event: Marines are eligible for only one Humanitarian Service Medal per qualifying event.
Conclusion
The authorization of the Humanitarian Service Medal for COVID-19 operations serves as a formal recognition of the dedication and critical contributions of U.S. Marine Corps personnel during a global crisis. This medal acknowledges the direct, humanitarian impact of service members who deployed and operated in challenging circumstances to provide essential relief and support. For those who believe they are eligible, understanding the criteria and nomination process is the first step towards receiving this well-deserved recognition for their service to humanity.
References:
- MARADMIN 575/20
