History

The Overseas Medal was established on June 6, 1962. It superseded the Colonial Medal, and is generally the same form, but differs in inscription and possible ribbon clasps. It is awarded for participation in military campaigns in foreign territories.

The campaigns were represented on clasps. There is no limit on the number of clasps that can be worn on the ribbon. These clasps are numerous and variable. The official ribbon clasps are silver gilt and include “CAMBODGE” (Cambodia) (18.01.1993), “LIBAN” (Lebanon) (14.12.1979), “MAURITANIE” (Mauritania) (14.12.1979), “MOYEN-ORIENT” (Middle East) (21.12.1990), “ORMUZ” (Hormuz) (21.12.1987), “RÉPUBLIQUE CENTRAFRICAINE” (Central African Republic) (16.04.1997), “RÉPUBLIQUE DE CÔTE D’IVOIRE” (26.05.2003), “RÉPUBLIQUE DU CONGO” (Republic of the Congo) (24.01.2000), “RÉPUBLIQUE DÉMOCRATIQUE DU CONGO” (Democratic Republic of the Congo) (28.08.2003), “RWANDA” (27.08.1995), “SAHEL” (Mali) (05.06.2013), “SOMALIE” (Somalia) (10.01.1993), “TCHAD” (Chad) (14.12.1979), “ZAÏRE” (14.12.1979).

There may be additional versions that differ in composition, size, and manufacturer.