U.S. troops who take part in the fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria will be awarded the same medal as those who have fought in Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001, the Pentagon said Friday.
Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Jessica Wright approved awarding the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal to troops who have been deployed for Operation Inherent Resolve since June 15, the Pentagon said.
“This award provides immediate recognition to our service members supporting efforts to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community,” the statement said.
However, officials said service members who already have received the award for prior service will not receive another award or a battle star.
