History

The Southwest Asia Service Medal was established by President George Bush by Executive Order on March 12, 1991. Any member of the United States Armed Forces who served during the Persian Gulf War in the Operations Desert Sheild and Desert Storm in the Middle East between August 2, 1990, and November 30, 1995, were eligible for the award of the Bronze Medal. Service in an organization or naval vessel participating for a minimum of 1 day in ground or shore military operations, as a crewmember in 1 or more aerial flights in direct support of military operations, or in temporary duty for 30 consecutive or 60 nonconsecutive days qualified for the award. Participation in actual combat that was less than the qualifying time period also qualified for the award.

3 battle stars were authorized for wear on the ribbon in recognition of service in the Defence of Saudi Arabia (between August 2, 1990, to January 16, 1991), Liberation of Kuwait (between January 17 to April 11, 1992), and in Southwest Asia Cease-Fire (between April 12, 1992, to November 30, 1995). Navy personnel were eligible to wear the Fleet Marine Force Combat Operation Insignia to denote participation in ground combat.

In 2016, the ribbon design was slightly altered.