A bronze color metal disc 1 1/4 inches in diameter, charged with an eagle, wings displayed, with a stylized shield of thirteen vertical bars on its breast and holding in dexter claw an olive branch and in sinister claw three arrows, all in front of a terrestrial globe with the inscription above “WAR ON TERRORISM SERVICE MEDAL.” On the reverse is a laurel wreath on a plain field.

The eagle and shield, adapted from the Great Seal, represent the United States. They protect the globe above and behind, symbolizing American resolve to combat and overcome global elements of international terrorism. The laurel wreath represents the drive for peace. The three arrows signify vigilance, resolve and peace.

The ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of the following stripes: 5/32 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/8 inch Golden Yellow 67104; 1/8 inch Scarlet 67111; 1/16 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/16 inch White 67101; 5/16 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/16 inch White 67101; 1/16 inch Old Glory Blue 67178; 1/8 inch Scarlet 67111; 1/8 inch Golden Yellow 67104; 5/32 inch Old Glory Blue 67178.

The following are authorized components and related items:

On 20 September 2002, the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense, requested the Institute provide suggested designs. This was accomplished and the design was selected on 7 January 2003. Executive Order 13289, dated 12 March 2003, signed by President Bush, established this medal.

In order of precedence, the GWOTEM will be worn before the GWOTSM and both shall directly follow the Kosovo Campaign Medal (KCM) (i.e., KCM, GWOTEM, GWOTSM, KDSM, etc.).

Soldiers may receive both the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (GWOTEM) and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (GWOTSM) if they meet the requirements of both awards; however, the same period of service establishing eligibility for one cannot be used to justify service eligibility for the other.

Order of precedence and wear policy for service medals awarded to Army personnel is contained in Army Regulation (AR) 670-1. Policy for awards, approving authority and supply of medals is contained in AR 600-8-22. The policy for display of campaign streamers on guidons/flags and supply of streamers is contained in Chapter 9, 840-10.