[olde north church]

IMHO the medal reflects the appreciation of a nation to those who are putting their lives on the line for our liberty. I do have a comment with the term "expeditionary". I know there are several connotations but there is no shortage of those who would use it to their own political advantage. I don't want those who claimed the war in Iraq was plotted in Texas to be able to use this medal of service against the brave men and women who will have earned it. Does it have that connotation of "looking for trouble" and conjuring up the image of a safari or [There is an exact phrase I can't recall right now]. Does it trivialize the importance of the mission that way or am I reading to much into it?

[Old Sarge]

Does it trivialize the importance of the mission that way or am I reading to much into it?

::kindly:: Yes, FRiend, you're reading too deeply.

Expeditionary Forces have been part of military operations throughout modern history. It means that your troops are leaving friendly shores and lands, venturing into the unknown country of the foe.

What I do like is, the Homeland Defenders are being recognized, as well...

[Miss Marple]

The Armed Forces who went to Europe under Pershing in WWI were routinely referred to in the newspapers as the American Expditionary Forces. It is not a new term and has nothing to do with safaris.

[Jammz]

There is a requirement of having deployed for a certain amount of days to receive this medal. You have to deploy AND serve under a certain operation. If you are not in that theatre of operations you will not receive the medal.