Pentagon Approves Global War on Terrorism Medals for Yemen Anti-Houthi Operations

U.S. service members involved in counter-Houthi operations in Yemen are now eligible for the prestigious Global War on Terrorism Service and Expeditionary Medals, the Pentagon announced. The move recognizes their vital contribution to countering dangers in the Red Sea region through operations such as Prosperity Guardian, Poseidon Archer, and Pandora Throttle.

The medals, revealed in a June 2023 memo by Assistant Secretary of Defense Ronald T. Keohane, require personnel to perform at least 30 days in active counterterrorism operations to be eligible. This eligibility reflects changed Pentagon requirements that emphasize long-term commitment to specific missions.

Since October 2023, the Houthis, an Iranian-backed proxy militia, have increased hostilities against US forces and regional allies. Recent operations have seen US Navy forces strike Houthi ground targets and intercept drones and rockets aiming at Red Sea boats, demonstrating the group's increasing threat.

According to Pentagon spokesperson Joshua Wick, while US personnel in Iraq and Syria are eligible for the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal, combat operations in Yemen are specifically recognized under the GWOT-SM standards.

Since its introduction following 9/11, the Global War on Terrorism Medal has represented the courage of US troops against terrorism around the world. This latest permission demonstrates the Pentagon's commitment to protecting those fighting growing regional threats.

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