It was authorized on August 9, 2007, but may be awarded for expeditionary service in a Global War on Terrorism mission in a combat zone on or after September 11, 2001, until a date to be determined.

The medal was created and approved to recognize and honor the contributions and accomplishments of the civilian workforce of the Department of Defense in direct support of the armed forces, whose members are engaged in operations to combat terrorism.

Eligible civilians must have provided direct support and entered the designated geographic area of eligibility serving abroad in an operation that directly supported a U.S. military global war on terrorism operation.

The reverse of the medal features an 8-point compass rose surrounded by the words CIVILIAN SUPPORT and GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM.

The suspension ribbon is primarily the shade of medium blue associated with the Department of Defense which is also used on the GWOTEM.