History

The Army of Occupation Medal was established by War Department General Orders on April 5, 1946. The Bronze Medal was originally awarded to members of the Army in recognition of 30 consecutive days of service in a designated geographic area of occupation. In 1948, the award was expanded to Air Force personnel. Army of Occupation service in the following areas were eligible for the award; Germany between May 9, 1945, and May 5, 1955, Austria between May 9, 1945, and July 7, 1955, Italy between May 9, 1945, and September 12, 1949, Japan between September 3, 1945, and April 27, 1952, Korea between September 3, 1945, and June 29, 1949, and Berlin between May 9, 1945, and October 2, 1990. Personnel who qualified for the Berlin Airlift Device in recognition of 92 consecutive days of service in Berlin in 1948 and 1949 were also eligible for the Medal.

Campaign clasps inscribed "GERMANY" or "JAPAN" were authorized for wear with the ribbon to denote the service area. Additional, unofficial campaign clasps may be encountered.