ES,
I am inclined to disagree, the roles you mention are neither arduous nor hazardous, it would be wrong to hand out medals simply for carrying out your role away from home. As an example, should a sailor receive a medal for deploying aboard a ship for nine months, I would argue that being aboard a pussers grey or submarine with (until recently) little in the way of home comms is more arduous than the CAOC, Cyprus or Vegas. I agree recognition should be given where due, but not in the form of a medal, maybe a certificate would suffice.