Current Rule
I am currently deployed, and having heard many rumours have checked the DIN and with the medal office direct.
- The current policy is - OSM is awarded therefore you cannot wear the ISAF/NATO medal.
- You cannot wear it on Mess Dress (even though it is a privately purchased uniform - one rumour...). You have an OSM!
- The OSM is awarded for X (I've already got it so don't remember) number of days. ISAF/NATO is awarded after 30 days.
- in the old days you used to get numbers to wear on the ribbons after more than one tour - ie Bosnia. x number of afghan tours = one OSM. Live with it!
Yes, there are a number of us with numerous Op tours that do not qualify for all the medals awarded - the ISAF/NATO policy is one medal per person no matter how many tours - I currently work with at least 6 people who would qualify for 4 ISAF/NATO medals - they are just keen/enthusiastic/have no home life.....
MATZ
Don't get me started on the 'Southern Afghanistan' medal issue....