Gulf War Medals
Several U.S. military medals recognize service during the 1990–1991 Gulf War, including Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. These awards honor service members who participated in combat operations, coalition efforts, and support missions in Southwest Asia.
Major Gulf War Medals
Southwest Asia Service Medal
The primary U.S. campaign medal awarded for participation in the Gulf War.
Eligibility generally includes service between August 2, 1990, and November 30, 1995, within designated areas of operations.
Campaign stars denote participation in specific campaigns.
Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia)
Awarded by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and accepted for wear by eligible U.S. military personnel.
Recognizes participation in Operation Desert Storm.
Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait)
Awarded by the Government of Kuwait to coalition forces who helped liberate Kuwait.
Authorized for wear by eligible U.S. service members.
Campaign Stars
The Southwest Asia Service Medal authorizes:
- Bronze Service Star
- Silver Service Star
These represent participation in designated Gulf War campaigns.
Collecting Gulf War Medals
Collectors often seek:
- Complete Gulf War medal sets
- Original ribbons
- Campaign stars
- Named medal groups
- Deployment documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary Gulf War campaign medal?
The Southwest Asia Service Medal.
Can veterans receive both Kuwait Liberation Medals?
Yes. Many eligible service members received both the Saudi Arabian and Kuwaiti versions.
Are Gulf War medals still awarded?
Most Gulf War-specific awards are no longer issued for Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, although they remain authorized for qualifying historical service.