Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal
Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal
DESCRIPTION
The Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal (MCEM) is awarded to Marine personnel for service in a named U.S. military expedition or operation for which no specific campaign medal has been authorized. This award recognizes the commitment of Marine ground forces to forward deployment and operational readiness in hostile or highly hazardous areas. It signifies direct participation in critical landing, security, or contingency operations where exposure to danger or hardship was significant.
HISTORY
The Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal was established in 1919 and is specifically for Marines. Its criteria largely mirror the Navy Expeditionary Medal, ensuring that members of both services are recognized for participation in the same expeditionary events. It ranks immediately after the Navy Expeditionary Medal in the order of precedence.
PREREQUISITES
Marine Corps Personnel Requirement
The recipient must be an enlisted or officer member serving in the Marine Corps element of CSG-12 during the qualifying operation.
Designated Expeditionary Service
The unit must participate in a formally designated expedition in a hostile or highly hazardous foreign area of operation.
Active Participation
The member must be actively engaged in the operation for the required duration, typically 30 continuous days or 60 non-continuous days.
CO Certification
Requires verification from the Operations Officer (O-4+) confirming deployment dates and final approval from the Commanding Officer (O-6).