New York Introduces Commemorative Medals for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans

The New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs has taken a significant step to honor the service of veterans who fought in the Afghanistan and Iraq Wars by introducing commemorative medals. These medals, approved by Governor Kathy Hochul and the state legislature in 2023, serve as tokens of gratitude for the sacrifices made by these veterans.

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The initiative, marked by the creation of the New York State Afghanistan War Commemorative Medal and the New York State Iraq War Commemorative Medal, is a gesture of appreciation towards those who served in these conflicts. While these medals are not meant for display on military uniforms, they hold deep symbolic value as expressions of recognition from the state government.

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The Afghanistan War medal is dedicated to honoring the service of armed forces personnel who were deployed in Afghanistan from October 2001 to August 2021. Similarly, the Iraq War medal acknowledges the contributions of service members who served in Iraq between March 2003 and December 2011.

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This initiative follows the recent issuance of commemorative medals to veterans of the Korean and Vietnam Wars by the Division of Military and Naval Affairs. Maj. Gen. Ray Shields, the adjutant general of New York, expressed pride on behalf of the legislature and Governor Hochul in recognizing the military service of those who bravely fought in Iraq and Afghanistan.

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Eligible veterans can apply for these medals through the Division of Military and Naval Affairs website, where they are required to submit their Department of Defense Form 214 (DD214) as proof of their service in the respective war zones. Applicants must either be current residents of New York or have been residents at the time of their deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan.

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Notably, family members and designated individuals are also permitted to apply for the medals on behalf of a veteran, and the medals can even be awarded posthumously as a tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

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The New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs, overseeing the New York National Guard, New York Naval Militia, and New York Guard volunteer state defense force, plays a crucial role in administering these commemorative medals. Additionally, the agency manages the New York State Military Museum in Saratoga Springs, further underscoring its commitment to honoring the state’s military history and heritage.

This initiative reflects a broader trend of states and organizations across the country recognizing and commemorating the service and sacrifices of military personnel. By bestowing these medals, New York State not only honors individual veterans but also acknowledges the collective dedication and valor exhibited by all those who served in the Afghanistan and Iraq Wars.

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New York Introduces Commemorative Medals for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans

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