Department of Defense Publishes Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal Guidance

On March 30, 2016, the President signed an Executive Order titled, “Establishing the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal” based on the recommendations of Secretary of Defense and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Today, the Secretary of Defense officially announced the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal (IRCM), which distinctly recognizes our Service members battling terrorist groups in Iraq and Syria. Approximately 11,000 service members are eligible for the new award as of March 30, 2016 (Courtesy artwork)

Department of Defense Publishes Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal Guidance

Published March 31, 2016

WASHINGTON D.C. -- On March 30, 2016, the President signed an Executive Order titled, "Establishing the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal" based on the recommendations of Secretary of Defense and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The Department of Defense announced today that effective immediately, service members who are serving, or have served, in Iraq, Syria, or contiguous waters or airspace on or after June 15, 2014, who meet eligibility criteria are authorized award of the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal.

The secretary of defense signed a memorandum publishing the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal award guidance and criteria pursuant to an Executive Order issued today, "Establishing the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal." The Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal (IRCM) distinctly recognizes those Service members battling terrorist groups in Iraq and Syria.

Service members who were awarded a Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (GWOT-EM) for their qualifying service in Iraq or Syria during the period of June 15, 2014, to March 30, may exchange that GWOT-EM for the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal.

Service members should contact their respective military departments for additional guidance and for determinations regarding eligibility for the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal.