Pentagon creates new medal for troops serving at US southern border
The Pentagon has announced the creation of a new medal for service members who have deployed to the southern border to assist federal law enforcement with President Donald Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration. According to a memo released by the Pentagon on August 13, the Mexican Border Defense Medal will be awarded to U.S. troops serving with Joint Task Force Southern Border.
Previously, service members supporting Customs and Border Protection at the border received the Armed Forces Service Medal. However, the new Mexican Border Defense Medal will now be awarded to those serving within 100 nautical miles from the international border shared with Mexico in states like Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Additionally, those who have served in adjacent waters up to 24 nautical miles away from the border are also eligible for the new award.
The Pentagon has confirmed that approximately 8,500 military personnel are assigned to Joint Task Force Southern Border, tasked with responding to security threats in the region. The task force, which began operations in March, has completed around 3,500 patrols between then and July.
In a move to bolster U.S. troops’ capacity to assist Customs and Border Protection, the Pentagon has established four national defense areas along the border. These areas operate under military jurisdiction, allowing U.S. troops to detain trespassers, a task they were previously prohibited from doing under existing federal law.
The new medal will replace the Armed Forces Service Medal for service at the southern border. Service members who have already received the Armed Forces Service Medal for their support to Customs and Border Protection may apply to receive the Mexican Border Defense Medal in lieu of the former award.
Overall, the creation of the Mexican Border Defense Medal highlights the increased involvement of the military in immigration enforcement efforts under the Trump administration. The medal serves as recognition for the service and dedication of U.S. troops deployed to assist in securing the southern border.
