The AOSM Special Operations is a prestigious service medal awarded to Australian Defence Force members and government employees for their exceptional contributions in covert missions and high-risk undertakings. Read more..
The Australian Operational Service Medal (AOSM) Special Operations is a service medal awarded to members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and Australian Government employees who have provided operational service in special operations.
Eligibility
The AOSM Special Operations recognizes the contributions of ADF members and government employees who have participated in special operations, including covert missions, reconnaissance, and other high-risk activities, as declared by the Chief of the Defence Force from November 2019.
Design
The medal is a circular design of cupro-nickel finished in antique silver. It features an old-world stylised map on the obverse, representing global operations. The map is crowned by the Federation Star, and surrounded by the inscription "AUSTRALIAN OPERATIONAL SERVICE MEDAL". The reverse bears a wreath of mimosa, overlayed by a horizontal scroll with the words "Defending Australia and its national interests". Above the scroll is the image of an hourglass, signifying ongoing vigilance and timely response.
Ribbon
The ribbon of the AOSM Special Operations is black, with a single red stripe down the centre. The colours symbolise the non-conventional conduct of special operations, and the danger, strength, and great sacrifices made by personnel in the service of Australia.
If you order your medal unmounted, the medal and ribbon will be supplied as separate components. Miniature medals will be supplied with 15cm of ribbon and full size medals will be supplied with 30cm of ribbon.
The court mounting of medals involves securing medals to a stiff backing board, along with the placement of a brooch fitting on the board. This ensures that the medals remain firmly in place and do not shift or move about while being worn.
It is mandatory for active members of the Australian Defence Force to have their medals court mounted, as it is considered the appropriate method of presenting military honours in a professional and respectful manner. By doing so, the medals are given proper recognition and are displayed in a neat and organized fashion.The swing mounting of medals refers to the attachment of a medal to a ribbon that is allowed to hang freely from a brooch, which in turn is affixed to a uniform or clothing. This mounting style was commonly used for medals from the Boer War up to and including World War II, although there are no fixed guidelines or regulations regarding its use.
Miniature Court Mounted medals are mounted using the same method as Full size medals, yet they are typically worn to ceremonies were wearing full size medals would be impractical. These medals are commonly worn to all ceremonies that take place after 6 pm such as dinners.
Miniature Swing Mounted medals are mounted using the same method as Full size medals, yet they are typically worn to ceremonies were wearing full size medals would be impractical. These medals are commonly worn to all ceremonies that take place after 6 pm such as dinners.
A ribbon bar is a small, rectangular display of ribbons worn on military uniforms to represent various honours and awards earned by the wearer. These ribbons are arranged in a specific order and are attached to a backing, which is then attached to the uniform. Ribbon bars are a compact and convenient way for military personnel to display their achievements and are often used in situations where a full-sized medal or award would be impractical.
