Pentagon Introduces New Medal for Border Service Members
The Pentagon has announced a new medal for military personnel assigned to the tropical borders, aimed at supporting federal law enforcement in addressing illegal immigration. This Mexican Border Defense Medal (MBDM) is intended for members of the Joint Task Force South Border, as detailed in a memo released on August 13.
U.S. defense officials have validated the memo, confirming it to be authentic. Currently, service members will be awarded the MBDM instead of the previous Military Service Medal (AFSM), which recognized efforts to safeguard customs and borders.
The AFSM was initially created in 1996 under former President Bill Clinton for troops involved in operations that did not encounter direct opposition from foreign forces. In July, it was reported that around 8,500 military personnel were deployed to the tropical border, tasked with addressing security threats. Since the task force began in March, approximately 3,500 patrols have been conducted.
Eligibility for the new medal includes deployment from January 20 within 100 miles of the Mexico border in states like Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Those who served in adjacent waters up to 24 nautical miles from the border also qualify.
The memo outlines that service members need to be permanently assigned or detailed to specific units engaged in designated DOD military operations supporting Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for at least 30 consecutive days during the award period.
For individuals who previously received the AFSM for service at the tropical border, there’s an option to appeal for the new award, although they cannot hold both medals for the same service period. “Those awarded the AFSM may apply for recognition under MBDM but are restricted to one medal for the same timeframe,” the memo stated.
Additionally, under directives from the president, the Pentagon has established a defense buffer zone along the border. This military jurisdiction allows U.S. troops to detain intruders, which was previously prohibited by federal law. The new defense areas enhance the Joint Task Force Southern Border’s capability to conduct surveillance and patrol operations to further support customs and border security.
