What does AFSM mean in AWARDS & MEDALS

The Armed Forces Service Medal (AFSM) is a United States military medal that is awarded to recognize service in a designated operation for which no other U.S. campaign or service medal is approved.

The AFSM has been awarded for operations such as peacekeeping, humanitarian efforts, and continuous operations in hostile areas since its creation on January 11, 1996.

An individual who was awarded the AFSM will receive a bronze medal. This can be worn on active duty uniforms and civilian clothing.

Yes, along with the bronze medal, recipients of the AFSM also receive an oak leaf clasp to signify any additional time served during an eligible period of operation.

To be eligible to receive this award, personnel must have provided direct support to a designated operation within 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days of service within one year after the termination date of the eligible period or received authorization from their chain of command or from Director Army National Guard (ARNG/NGB-ARP-P). Those serving less than 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days may still qualify under certain conditions outlined by their respective branch of service's regulations. Additionally all services have authorized its members an arrowhead device to indicate participation in multiple combat engagements during the same campaign ribbon eligibility period.