This award is authorized by the Secretary General of NATO for specific NATO operations relating to Kosovo. In accordance with Executive Order 11446, 16 January 1969, the Secretary of Defense has approved acceptance and wear by U.S. Serive members who meet criteria specified by the Secretary General of NATO effective 13 October 1998 - Date to Be Determined (DTBD). The following are Kosovo Operations:

Operations ALLIED FORCE (24 Mar 99 - 10 Jun 99); JOINT GUARDIAN (11 Jun 99 - DTBD); ALLIEF HARBOUR (4 Apr 99 - 1 Sep 99); SUSTAIN HOPE/SHINING HOPE (4 Apr 99 - 10 Jul 99); NOBLE ANVIL (24 Mar 99 - 20 Jul 99); or Kosovo Task Force(s): HAWK (5 Apr 99 - 24 Jun 99), SABER (31 Mar 99 - 8 Jul 99), FALCON (11 Jun 99 - DTBD, coincides with JOINT GUARDIAN), or HUNTER (1 Apr 99 - 1 Nov 99).

Please refer to DoD 1348.33-M, Chapter 7, paragaph E.1.k., page 7-10 for specific individual eligibility requirements.

To recognize subsequent awards (if approved by the Secretary of Defense) for service in a different NATO operation, U.S. Service members will affix a bronze service star to the NATO Medal suspension medal and ribbon. Authorized Device: Clasp.