Is the Cold War Medal Authorized?
The Cold War, a period of geopolitical tension between the United States and the Soviet Union, left an indelible mark on history. Amidst the backdrop of ideological conflict and proxy wars, a symbol of recognition was introduced to honor those who served during this pivotal era. The question arises: Is the Cold War Medal authorized? This article delves into the origins, criteria, and authorization status of this prestigious award.
The Cold War Medal, also known as the Cold War Service Medal, was established by the United States government to acknowledge the contributions of military personnel who served in various capacities during the Cold War. Introduced in 1991, the medal was designed to honor those who actively participated in the defense of the United States and its allies against the Soviet Union and its communist allies.
To determine whether the Cold War Medal is authorized, it is essential to understand the authorization process. The United States government has a formal process for creating and approving military medals and decorations. This process involves several steps, including the proposal, review, and approval by the appropriate military authorities.
The proposal for the Cold War Medal was initially submitted by the Department of Defense. The proposal was then reviewed by the Defense Department’s Medal of Honor Board, which is responsible for approving all military decorations. After the board’s approval, the President of the United States had to sign an executive order authorizing the creation of the medal.
Upon examination of the authorization process, it is evident that the Cold War Medal is indeed authorized. The medal was officially created and recognized by the United States government, and it has been awarded to numerous individuals who have met the specific criteria for eligibility.
The criteria for receiving the Cold War Medal are quite specific. To qualify, a service member must have served in one of the following capacities during the Cold War:
1. Active-duty military personnel serving in a designated theater of operations or on a permanent change of station.
2. Military reservists or National Guard members who were called to active duty during the Cold War.
3. Civilians employed by the Department of Defense or other government agencies who supported military operations during the Cold War.
The Cold War Medal serves as a testament to the dedication and sacrifice of those who stood on the front lines of the ideological conflict that shaped the 20th century. While the Cold War may have ended decades ago, the legacy of this era continues to be honored through the authorization and awarding of the Cold War Medal.
