I have been interested by the postings here, and I see a contradiction.
I did my 14 years in the ‘60’s to the 80’s and no way did I do anything to justify the award of a medal. However I did do 14 years service to the State even if it was well paid, but then so did a lot of junior Civil Servants in Whitehall who got OBE’s etc. So what about a classic British compromise? (fudge)
What about an ‘award’? GCSM, is an award, DFC is a medal. In my ‘70’s it is a bit late for me to care one way which way this discussion goes, but if you feel strongly about it, what about a Cold War Award?
Sure it could take the form of a medal, and if you wish to turn up at the church on November the 11th wearing it fine, but the grand kids may be impressed 20 years from now, when they find it with the veterans badge and the log books.