Australian Operational Service Medal – Special Operations
The Australian Operational Service Medal (AOSM) – Special Operations recognises the service of Australian Defence Force members on special operations as declared by the Chief of the Defence Force from 1 November 2019.
Eligible Service
The AOSM – Special Operations recognises the service of Australian Defence Force members on special operations as declared by the Chief of the Defence Force from 1 November 2019.
Medal
The medal is a cupro-nickel medal finished in antique silver. The obverse bears an old-world stylised world globe signifying global operations, interlinked with a Federation Star. The globe is surrounded by the words ‘AUSTRALIAN OPERATIONAL SERVICE MEDAL’.
The reverse bears a central horizontal stylised scroll with the words ‘Defending Australia and its national interests’, overlaying a wreath of mimosa, above which sits an hour glass motif signifying the ongoing vigilance and timely response of Defence.
Ribbon
The ribbon is black with a central thin red stripe. The black represents the non-conventional conduct of special operations, while the single red stripe represents danger, strength and the great sacrifices made by recipients in defence of Australia.