The following is the text of a news release from the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd):
(WASHINGTON) — The Maritime Administration has authorized award of the Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal (MMEM) for service aboard U.S.-flag vessels in support of Operations Restore Hope and United Shield and related operations in Somalia from Dec. 5, 1992 to March 31, 1995.
Civilian U.S. merchant mariners employed on U.S.-flag vessels delivering cargo and supplies to deployed U.S. military, allied and United Nations forces, as well as supporting associated humanitarian cargo and personnel movements to and from Somalia port facilities or national waters during the period cited, are eligible for award.
The MMEM was created to recognize the contributions of U.S. merchant mariners in times of national conflict or emergency. The medal has been previously awarded for Merchant Marine service in Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm and Operations Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom. Additional information about the award can be found by contacting Deveeda Midgette at Deveeda.Midgette@dot.gov or (202) 366-2354.
