The medal was first announced by then Defence Secretary, Sir Michael Fallon on 19 September 2017.

It was first awarded, to service personnel, on 18 July 2018 in London by Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson.

This Operational Service Medal is the first medal of the contemporary era to be awarded to individuals who served outside of the operational area, reflecting the changing nature of warfare.

A separate medal of the same design is awarded for each campaign, differentiated by a distinct ribbon.

[3] The Queen approved eligibility criteria for the medal to include those personnel who have made a significant contribution to efforts in Iraq and Syria, including civilians, even if those efforts were outside the operational area.