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Transcript of FAX: 265.6206 P* - Department of Defence information is provided on the certificates1 (could ... for...
bull IIGOOO1FRtl1 IlFAT 61 6 2613455
FOI69(14(15- Item 1 Serial 1 I
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
DATE 29 August 1995 FILE
at COVER PLUS BIGHl
To DEPT OF DBFBNCS AlTBNlXON SBftVICB8 PERSONNEL POtICY - S02 PAT CLNUlt8
FAX 2656206 - JOklI iCIIIIlIallD P h~N~PBONB (06) 261-2917 ~ FAX (06) 261 3455
ISUWAII UBERAnON MEDAL
PE BSS FIND AftACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALINc 1ft 700 MBNLS lItOvtDm BY THE ICUWJUlI AUlHOlUuBS FOR AUSlRIUolAN SERVtCBMlDl tNVOLVED IN THE LI8BNlION OF THAT COONIRY
AS IT WOULD APPBAR THAT YOUR DBPARl1IBNl WILL DB CBNlRAL 10 lBB GOVERNMIiINT S AlfI1VDS 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF THB MEDlUo 10 DSFBNCB PERSONNBL IT WOULD BE APPRECtAlED IF YOU CCIULD BJtIIMZNB THE PAPERS ANtI ADVISE IN DlIE couasE ANY PROPOSBD AClION
IF YOU aBQUlR8 FURTHER INFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNING lBB MEDALS PLEASB TELEPHONE YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARTHBNl OF ADHINtSTRAlIVE SERVICBS (AWltRDS AND NATIONAL SYMBOLS) wVE NO1 10 THE BES1 OF MY KNOWLEOOB YET ftBCEIVED ADVICB OF THE PROPOSAL AS DISCUSSBD yOU wy WISH TO APPROACH THEM USING THE Al1JICHED INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRlAlE
I
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---
29 AtXi 95 1700 FRCII DFRT 61 62613455
jIj 29 95 IIJ~
1shyI __ =9-shy -shyJ RuIIIeIltiid Plutuool DFATolbamI
Fax 0081 8281 34N
KuwIII UlNtilllklll MedII
In ~ to cable OCEMI2181p_ ItraquoICamptowIIt UlNtilllon Mlltel
AItIIahIId bullbullCZIfJY ttl the medlII ~ and InInaIaIIan
l1w Innat engravedthe ~ Innat IIk8dthIN ibullbull pI8CII to put thIIlwalplllla
Alat Of 81dllll WIllS nat pravIded norwlllreany dIIalled ~ the ipIIIljnu 111M (tranIIIIIOn aaIleCIJ -Yaid to be 1dIICI to AuaIrIIlan troope WhO took pet In the or IIIInItIrIG or KuwIIt
W IwYe no I1ICXIIdii or 1lIIY l8qUaat flam MY AU8II8I1In AIdhaIl)101 the medaIa IurtdMetwid the Depa b bull of DIIfMCtiOr1IIIQrIIy COIICeIIW with Itmay HI oath cI1ecIIdng with thIrm TIMIIy would CIIItf8InJy haYelllCDlda ttllhoIe ~Who took PIIrt in the
1havII dIIICIked wI1ti tI18 BrItIah and US EmIl bullbull II_1Il RIy8dh to find aut If twte tI8d medal deIIvWIIIL M tIOIh CIIUItrIea tinted In Kuwait 1tMIY would nat e1CpIICt to 111 tftIm In RIyIdh The DwIInCIIt 8IrOfItln laquotheBr1tIIh EI1ti 1IY acMIe me that tMy lII8Idlcltnt madallIbout Nov)8ln ago The US In ggIlj to cIwck WIIIIIhIIrembnIy In ICUWlIit and WUlgetlMdt to 1M
PAtE1iIB1
TO 0-2656206 PAGE 00329 FUi 95 1700 FRIl1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 P2
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Pfta Wftitary I iiMP 0IIce iulUyMh But11 ofdle SofKzrMdt
Bmhlly ofAulnlll
We sencllOpboantldah medel ofUllrn~lCJJftit Jbca ate 700 medii tDthe tIme bola with tIUi ca1l6 ~maafer to hIItiI tbaD 1D thetAmlnlllll WopI wIIo DOt pet in Cw wtII of ~
29 AJCi 915 1549
29 Alli 95 1700 FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455 TO 0-2656206 PAGE004 RJ Z9 ~SIf 1iSC5A1 ~ ~ ~ ( r--~I8RJjf)hgt Ita CyenQ~~pqJt
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TO B-265621il6FROM DFRT 61 6 2613455 29 fUl 95 1(lB1
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TO 0-2656206 fI-U 29 ~ 95 1702 FRCJ1 JlFAT 61 6 2613455
PSIUO 2S 95 liBf11m
MEDAL OF LlBERADNG IWWAIT
IlBlJtATING KUWAIT MEDAL CiRlDICATE
ON 111amp BASU0 TBamp PIlOJIOSampL OJ TIlE MJNISlER OF DBIDMB TIIampDIIR OBTD STATE OJ KUWAn BAS GRANJZI)
GI1tADBTllPgMEDAlOJrlau~I1NGIaJWAlTDI APPBICfATION or TBENOlILS WOllKlBATCONDIB1JTIDTO
IDDA11NGKDWAIT
DATE
29 flG 95 17B2 FF1J1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TO 0-26562il6
i ACTION RJHEARDER(PRB)
COpy NO 1
OUTWARD CABLEGRAM UCE545216 APBO
0OE545216 1155 28085 UNC
TO U RIYADIVU74
FM CANBERRA R3 REF O RY1I27
U N C LAS S I fIE D
kUNAIT LIBERAlIOH MEDALS
FROM FlU U013835
COULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN REGARD TO THE SEVEN HUNDRED EDAlS AND CERTIFIC4TES DELIVERED TO THE EM8ASSY
ARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS
WAS A LXST OF RECIPIENTS PROVIDED
WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES1 (COULD A COPY BE FAXED TO PROTOCOL BRANCM - FAX 2613455)
HAVE ANY GOVERNMENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INYOLVED IN THE MATTER PRIOR TO THE DELIVERY OF TilE SDALS r
HAVE rHE kUWAITIS PROVIDED ANY OTHER INFORMATIONINSTRUCTIONS REGARDING THE MEDALS
MERE MEDALS PROVIDED TO OTHER EMBASSIES IN RIYADHkUWAIT WHOSE CITIZENS WERE INVOLVED IN THE CAMPAIGN
2 IN ADDITION TO A fAX OF THE CERTXFICATE COULD YOU ALSO FAX A DRAWING OR REASONA8lE PHOTOCOPY OF THE MEDAL (AND RII~80N)
eM J RUTHERFORD PSP 2917
DISTRIBUTION IS LIMITED ONLY TO
AOTION MRMCOSTELLO
ACTION MRJHEARDER(PRBI FBB
MRHCOSTELLO(SEC) TT MRJHCCARTHY(OS) TT KssrANNER(~XBl rT HRRLAURIE(PMD)HRJDOLLIMORE(MAB) RPVARGHESE(PAD)
-23 lUi 95 1702 FRIl1 llFAT 61 6 2613455
f
ACTION KR~HEAIDER(PRBgt + COPY NO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM 0RYl927 NDAL
TOR 2217 2008_5ORY127 1555 ZO08S UNC
TO IR CANBERRA
U H C L A $ $ I FIE D
lUNAIT LIBERATION MeDALS
fOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND HAB SECTION
THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIYADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVEN HUNpgED KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDALS AND CERTIfICATES WHICH THEY ASK TO 8~ PRESENTED TO AUSTRALIAN TROOPS WHO TOOK PART IN THE WAR LIBERATING KUWAIT
2 GRATEFUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDALS SHOULD BE SENT AND WORDING Of ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE fORWARDED TO THE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS
ACTIOH MRMCOSTElLO
ACTIONS MRJHEARDER(PRB) FBB
MRMcaS1ELlO(SEC) 11 HRJHCCARTHY(DS) 1T MSSTANNERCEXB) TT MRRLAURIE(PMD)MRJDOLlIMOREtMABJ MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
-----shy
-29 FUi 95 1703 FRO DFAT 61 6 2613455
RECEIPT FOR CABLEGRAMS CAT B PRI SET NO 435
INMARD - ACTIONRN ClAS PREC PAGES COPIES
RV1927 UNC RR 1 1
MESSAGES IN SET 1 (1)PAGES IN SET 1 (1)
_ TOTA PfyeniE009 shy
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ZOIOS S5 1888 008 2602033 DlIPLS DEFfCllR ACPBPS DIV ilOOl IDSIB2B22B4e PA(EI 112
FOl691415
Llt_e_m_1_S_e_r_ia_12_i8 IOUIGN AIFAIBSANJ) TBADB
To DEfENCE lNTEltNAllONAL DMSION
FaiJe NumbeD
An1ian Policy CoontiDldion Branch
Paps iDduding this foJm 1
Fmm M$SWlJarg_
F JilIIDbcI 06-2612640
Date 2D 1995
~mJGlher 06-2612473
IhrnJilrr rbIld ~ duock thIlDlaquofrncc bIIII xeceived II ltpy orhod Qboshy-WI tbitChiefofDefmce Forces afIice beb appwpillfll redplcur ofbis advice ud guJd tJy teply to RiyBdhTl
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THE ltUWUT EIIB~ ElIVERED TODAY TO TNE AUSTRALUN f1f4 bullA~ EMBASSY IN RIYADH ISEVER--HUNDRED UNAIT UBERATJON EDALS AND f-- ~ CERTIFICATES WHICH ASIC T PItEUHTED TO IIUSTUUAN TROOPS 5 WHO TOOII PART IN TH~ WA 8ERATIN6 lCuWAIT 6 2 GRATEFUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE EDALS SHOULD 8E SENT AND ~ WORPIN6 OF ANT FOIAL COIRESPONDANCE IIHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO 0
THE KUWAIT EIIBIISST AcCEPTING TN EDALS ~
IC COWELL ADIIiiN PBIIDDDS c
DISTRIBUTION IS
ACTION RlICOSTELLO
ACTION MRJHEAIDEI(PRB)
RftCOSTELLOCSEC) TT SSTANNERCEXB) TT 1IlAURI~CPD) KRJDalLIIIORECIIAB)
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 4
HEADQUARTERS AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICES PERSONNEL POLICY
RUSSELL OFFICES CANBERRA ACT 2600 FACSIMILE NUMBER (06) 2656206
TO Sue jorgensen ---shy FROM Mr Pat Clarke-rADDRESS DFAT -middotmiddot----middot-1-APPT Staff OffICer Grade 2 1
j tFAXNO261 2673
Ceremonial ___==FAX NO 265 6206 _
II
lIE=EJ~~O61 2640 _ -J TELlsect NO 265 ~~---__ -1 DATE OF THIS fAX 10 Jan 96 +--___ iINO OF PAGES (IN~ THIsectL~__L-_ _ ____ __J
Dear Sue
In reference to our telephone conversation yesterday regarding the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government ofKuwait enclosed is the article from the US Anny Times as discussed
It is interesting to note that the US have also been short changed by about 200000 medals I have spoken to the Defence Attache at the US Embassy about the medal and how the US intend to treat the shortfall ie will they accept it and issue the medals on a first in fist served basis or go hack to the Kuwait Government and request more I hope to have an answer tomorrow and win advise you accordingly From that I believe that we may be able to come up with a way ahead on our shortfall
I am stiD chasing up the full numbers expected for Australia and will also advise you when known This will take a little longer
Regards
Pat Clarke
-~-------~----~ ~~----------
bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull bullbullbullbull ~
ftIInIN_ber2719951~ $~i ~bull
Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
~ ~
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16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
GIS l6i5 l5l3 GlSl6i5Q06
~ Tehp--Namhn Fw esect bullbull Namber
Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
I
16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDERCPRB)cOpy HO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM O RY24U LOLA
TOR 1643 0801 ORY246~ 1312 070196 UNC
TO RR CANBERRA
FM RIYADH FA REF OCE545Z16
U N C LAS S I FIE D
~UMAIT LIBERATION KEDALS
to FILE 920013835 0
bull PLEASE COULD yoU PROVlDE AN UPDATE ON THE SITUATlOH WITH m gt RESPECT TO WHAT WE ARE TO DO WI1H THE SEVEN HUNDRED KUWAIT JJ
9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
CII COWELL ADMIN P8U278
ACTION KRGFORRESTER
AOTION MRJHEARDER(PRB) FIB
MRMCOSTELLO(SEC) TT MRRSLAURIE(DS) TT MRLROWE bullbull CEXB) TT MRJBURSESSCPMD) TT MRKSKELLY(KAB) TT KIPVARGHESE(PAD) TT
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16 JAN 96 1045 FROM FAT 61 6 2613455 bull
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
Noo1= COVER PUlS EXGJi1
Too DSPl OF DBlBNCB A11BNTION SBRVJCBS PEIISONNEt POLICY - S02 PAT Ct NtKB
sr~ 0laquo FAX 2656206 -- ctk
JOHN RUTHERFORD ( PHONE (06) 261-2917 FAX (06) 261 3455
KUWAIT uBERAnoN MEDAL
PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARlMSNT 011 ADHINISTNJTIVB SERVICES (MUtRDS AND NAl1ONAL SYMBOLS) HAVE NOT 10 THE BBST OF HJ KNOWLBDGB YBI RBCBIVlm ADVICE OF THE PROPOSAL AS DiSCUSSED YOU MAY WISH 10 APPROACH THBM USING THE ATTACHBI) INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE
------------ ---_ _
16 JAN 96 1045 FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455 PAGE 004
Pl
J IWIhoIfvnI PlolDclol DFAT CIlIUmI
Fax 0061 e 281 34S5
In ~ to )OUr cable OCEM5218 rilpldlriO IN KIIweit LibIInItian MedId
AIIIId18CIleB cap) attIIe medIII ClDIIiIlCIIW lind 11I1on
Tho 1I1IICIIIIs not engrend hi 0IrIiIIcIIIM nat IMI1c8cf hn ie a p8cIIiIlt) put lhelWGlplanll
A Itt at IIWIIICIeU wee not pnMcIICI not wlllnl1IIIY dlltlllled ~ the ~ (trwIIIIfOn iiI1tIIdlId) limply aid to be h8ndad It) AuIItaIIan InICIpI WhO lOOk part In theWIt tit IIbII1ItIng of 1CampMIIIl
WellMl no I1ICIOIdI ar 1lIIY II 1II from any Aultralian AuIholIty for rned8lrt I _idhe Depallllent of Darlnae MCtiOllIp8dllclly COIIIIIIId with awlIrdIilt I11III1 be worth chIclkk1g wtthhem They would cemalnly have ntCIIIRIe of tme -v1Cemllll Vfho fDak pet In the __bull
IIWM CheIIkecI with fila BrIIIIh and US Embal_ In Ri)tIidh to Ind gut Ifthly twva had medal dellYwtIL M bOIl 0IUItrIes l8prlllntect In KLMitthly wcarId not wlIl_ to nIIlitIve tIlem In RIyadh The DdInce scuon Ollhe BItIIh EIQJ RI1I8IMIa Me NIt lhIri IIWIIICIIICI 1M medii about IwIt ~ The US 901 to check with their GII1bBIay In KUwaIt and wID OIl bIIck It) me
16 JAN 96 1il 4S FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455
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16 JAN 96 1B45 FROM IlFAT 61 6 2613455 TO 02656206
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MEDAL 011 LIBERATING KUWAIT
UJlUATlNGKUWAlTMDAL oamlCATE
ON THEBIIlIS OP lBE PROPOSAL OJ TSB MJNl5TEll or DUItMIE TO IMIR OFTSB STATE OJ KDWArI lIAS GIlANTpoundI)
QADI fRREI MEDALOr 1IBEPATlNGKUWArI IN AJIlIUCJAllON OPTBB NOBtamp WOlD[ TBAT CONTJUBU lED 10
IJMRATING KUWAlT
DATI
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FROM DFRT 51 5 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDER(PRB) ~ COpy NO 1
OUTWARD CABLEGRAM 0CE515Z16 APBO
0OE54521 1155 2808S UNC
TO RR RIVADHl6971
REF 0RV1927
U N Q LAS S l FIE D
~UNAlT LlBERATION HIDALS
FROH FILE 9210138$5 0
CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
cOpy BE FAXED ro PROrOCOL BRANCH - FAX Z613455) i c ~s mc z 10)HAVE ANY GOVERNHENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INVOLVED IN THE
zMATTER PRIOR TO THE PEL IVERY OF THE MEDALS lgt
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HAVE THE KUWAITIS PROVIDED ANY OTHER INFORMATIONINSTRUCTIONS Z iREGARDING rHe MEDALS 2 Jl
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WERE MEDALS PROVIDED TO OTHER EMBASSIES IN RIYADHKUWAIT 0 ~ WHOSE CITIZENS NERe INVOLVED IN THE CAMPAIGN 0
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2 IN ADDITION TO A FAX OF THE CERTIFICATE COULD YOU ALSO FAX A DRAWING OR REASONABLE PHDTOCOPV OF THE tlEDAL UNO RIBBON)
eM J RUTHERFORD Psp 2917 bull
DISTRIBUTION IS LIHITED ONLY TO
~CTION MRMCOSTELLO
ACTION tlRJHEARDERtPRI) FBB
MRHCOSTELLO(SEC) TlT MRJMCCARTHY(DlS) TT MSSTAHHER(EXB) 11T MRRLAURIE(PMD) MRJDOLLIMORE(MAB) MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
0 m
------~- --------------- shy
16 J~ 96 11347 FRQ1 llFAT 61 6 261J45S TO a26S62a6
ACTION RJe~RDER(PRB)
COpy NO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM 0ItYU27 NDAl
TOR 2217 2D08950RY192r 1553 200895 UNe
TO RR CANBERRA
FM UYADH FA
U H C L A $ S I f liD
KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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WHO TOOK PUT IN THE WAR LIBERATING kUWAIT I 1ft 2l
2 GRATEfUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDAWS SHOULD BE SENT AND 0WORDING OF ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO n nTHE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS 0 0
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
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14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
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3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
---
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IlBlJtATING KUWAIT MEDAL CiRlDICATE
ON 111amp BASU0 TBamp PIlOJIOSampL OJ TIlE MJNISlER OF DBIDMB TIIampDIIR OBTD STATE OJ KUWAn BAS GRANJZI)
GI1tADBTllPgMEDAlOJrlau~I1NGIaJWAlTDI APPBICfATION or TBENOlILS WOllKlBATCONDIB1JTIDTO
IDDA11NGKDWAIT
DATE
29 flG 95 17B2 FF1J1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TO 0-26562il6
i ACTION RJHEARDER(PRB)
COpy NO 1
OUTWARD CABLEGRAM UCE545216 APBO
0OE545216 1155 28085 UNC
TO U RIYADIVU74
FM CANBERRA R3 REF O RY1I27
U N C LAS S I fIE D
kUNAIT LIBERAlIOH MEDALS
FROM FlU U013835
COULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN REGARD TO THE SEVEN HUNDRED EDAlS AND CERTIFIC4TES DELIVERED TO THE EM8ASSY
ARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS
WAS A LXST OF RECIPIENTS PROVIDED
WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES1 (COULD A COPY BE FAXED TO PROTOCOL BRANCM - FAX 2613455)
HAVE ANY GOVERNMENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INYOLVED IN THE MATTER PRIOR TO THE DELIVERY OF TilE SDALS r
HAVE rHE kUWAITIS PROVIDED ANY OTHER INFORMATIONINSTRUCTIONS REGARDING THE MEDALS
MERE MEDALS PROVIDED TO OTHER EMBASSIES IN RIYADHkUWAIT WHOSE CITIZENS WERE INVOLVED IN THE CAMPAIGN
2 IN ADDITION TO A fAX OF THE CERTXFICATE COULD YOU ALSO FAX A DRAWING OR REASONA8lE PHOTOCOPY OF THE MEDAL (AND RII~80N)
eM J RUTHERFORD PSP 2917
DISTRIBUTION IS LIMITED ONLY TO
AOTION MRMCOSTELLO
ACTION MRJHEARDER(PRBI FBB
MRHCOSTELLO(SEC) TT MRJHCCARTHY(OS) TT KssrANNER(~XBl rT HRRLAURIE(PMD)HRJDOLLIMORE(MAB) RPVARGHESE(PAD)
-23 lUi 95 1702 FRIl1 llFAT 61 6 2613455
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ACTION KR~HEAIDER(PRBgt + COPY NO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM 0RYl927 NDAL
TOR 2217 2008_5ORY127 1555 ZO08S UNC
TO IR CANBERRA
U H C L A $ $ I FIE D
lUNAIT LIBERATION MeDALS
fOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND HAB SECTION
THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIYADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVEN HUNpgED KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDALS AND CERTIfICATES WHICH THEY ASK TO 8~ PRESENTED TO AUSTRALIAN TROOPS WHO TOOK PART IN THE WAR LIBERATING KUWAIT
2 GRATEFUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDALS SHOULD BE SENT AND WORDING Of ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE fORWARDED TO THE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS
ACTIOH MRMCOSTElLO
ACTIONS MRJHEARDER(PRB) FBB
MRMcaS1ELlO(SEC) 11 HRJHCCARTHY(DS) 1T MSSTANNERCEXB) TT MRRLAURIE(PMD)MRJDOLlIMOREtMABJ MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
-----shy
-29 FUi 95 1703 FRO DFAT 61 6 2613455
RECEIPT FOR CABLEGRAMS CAT B PRI SET NO 435
INMARD - ACTIONRN ClAS PREC PAGES COPIES
RV1927 UNC RR 1 1
MESSAGES IN SET 1 (1)PAGES IN SET 1 (1)
_ TOTA PfyeniE009 shy
----- -------
ZOIOS S5 1888 008 2602033 DlIPLS DEFfCllR ACPBPS DIV ilOOl IDSIB2B22B4e PA(EI 112
FOl691415
Llt_e_m_1_S_e_r_ia_12_i8 IOUIGN AIFAIBSANJ) TBADB
To DEfENCE lNTEltNAllONAL DMSION
FaiJe NumbeD
An1ian Policy CoontiDldion Branch
Paps iDduding this foJm 1
Fmm M$SWlJarg_
F JilIIDbcI 06-2612640
Date 2D 1995
~mJGlher 06-2612473
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THE ltUWUT EIIB~ ElIVERED TODAY TO TNE AUSTRALUN f1f4 bullA~ EMBASSY IN RIYADH ISEVER--HUNDRED UNAIT UBERATJON EDALS AND f-- ~ CERTIFICATES WHICH ASIC T PItEUHTED TO IIUSTUUAN TROOPS 5 WHO TOOII PART IN TH~ WA 8ERATIN6 lCuWAIT 6 2 GRATEFUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE EDALS SHOULD 8E SENT AND ~ WORPIN6 OF ANT FOIAL COIRESPONDANCE IIHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO 0
THE KUWAIT EIIBIISST AcCEPTING TN EDALS ~
IC COWELL ADIIiiN PBIIDDDS c
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ACTION RlICOSTELLO
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 4
HEADQUARTERS AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICES PERSONNEL POLICY
RUSSELL OFFICES CANBERRA ACT 2600 FACSIMILE NUMBER (06) 2656206
TO Sue jorgensen ---shy FROM Mr Pat Clarke-rADDRESS DFAT -middotmiddot----middot-1-APPT Staff OffICer Grade 2 1
j tFAXNO261 2673
Ceremonial ___==FAX NO 265 6206 _
II
lIE=EJ~~O61 2640 _ -J TELlsect NO 265 ~~---__ -1 DATE OF THIS fAX 10 Jan 96 +--___ iINO OF PAGES (IN~ THIsectL~__L-_ _ ____ __J
Dear Sue
In reference to our telephone conversation yesterday regarding the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government ofKuwait enclosed is the article from the US Anny Times as discussed
It is interesting to note that the US have also been short changed by about 200000 medals I have spoken to the Defence Attache at the US Embassy about the medal and how the US intend to treat the shortfall ie will they accept it and issue the medals on a first in fist served basis or go hack to the Kuwait Government and request more I hope to have an answer tomorrow and win advise you accordingly From that I believe that we may be able to come up with a way ahead on our shortfall
I am stiD chasing up the full numbers expected for Australia and will also advise you when known This will take a little longer
Regards
Pat Clarke
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Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
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16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
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Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
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16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDERCPRB)cOpy HO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM O RY24U LOLA
TOR 1643 0801 ORY246~ 1312 070196 UNC
TO RR CANBERRA
FM RIYADH FA REF OCE545Z16
U N C LAS S I FIE D
~UMAIT LIBERATION KEDALS
to FILE 920013835 0
bull PLEASE COULD yoU PROVlDE AN UPDATE ON THE SITUATlOH WITH m gt RESPECT TO WHAT WE ARE TO DO WI1H THE SEVEN HUNDRED KUWAIT JJ
9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
CII COWELL ADMIN P8U278
ACTION KRGFORRESTER
AOTION MRJHEARDER(PRB) FIB
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DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
Noo1= COVER PUlS EXGJi1
Too DSPl OF DBlBNCB A11BNTION SBRVJCBS PEIISONNEt POLICY - S02 PAT Ct NtKB
sr~ 0laquo FAX 2656206 -- ctk
JOHN RUTHERFORD ( PHONE (06) 261-2917 FAX (06) 261 3455
KUWAIT uBERAnoN MEDAL
PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARlMSNT 011 ADHINISTNJTIVB SERVICES (MUtRDS AND NAl1ONAL SYMBOLS) HAVE NOT 10 THE BBST OF HJ KNOWLBDGB YBI RBCBIVlm ADVICE OF THE PROPOSAL AS DiSCUSSED YOU MAY WISH 10 APPROACH THBM USING THE ATTACHBI) INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE
------------ ---_ _
16 JAN 96 1045 FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455 PAGE 004
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Fax 0061 e 281 34S5
In ~ to )OUr cable OCEM5218 rilpldlriO IN KIIweit LibIInItian MedId
AIIIId18CIleB cap) attIIe medIII ClDIIiIlCIIW lind 11I1on
Tho 1I1IICIIIIs not engrend hi 0IrIiIIcIIIM nat IMI1c8cf hn ie a p8cIIiIlt) put lhelWGlplanll
A Itt at IIWIIICIeU wee not pnMcIICI not wlllnl1IIIY dlltlllled ~ the ~ (trwIIIIfOn iiI1tIIdlId) limply aid to be h8ndad It) AuIItaIIan InICIpI WhO lOOk part In theWIt tit IIbII1ItIng of 1CampMIIIl
WellMl no I1ICIOIdI ar 1lIIY II 1II from any Aultralian AuIholIty for rned8lrt I _idhe Depallllent of Darlnae MCtiOllIp8dllclly COIIIIIIId with awlIrdIilt I11III1 be worth chIclkk1g wtthhem They would cemalnly have ntCIIIRIe of tme -v1Cemllll Vfho fDak pet In the __bull
IIWM CheIIkecI with fila BrIIIIh and US Embal_ In Ri)tIidh to Ind gut Ifthly twva had medal dellYwtIL M bOIl 0IUItrIes l8prlllntect In KLMitthly wcarId not wlIl_ to nIIlitIve tIlem In RIyadh The DdInce scuon Ollhe BItIIh EIQJ RI1I8IMIa Me NIt lhIri IIWIIICIIICI 1M medii about IwIt ~ The US 901 to check with their GII1bBIay In KUwaIt and wID OIl bIIck It) me
16 JAN 96 1il 4S FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455
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MEDAL 011 LIBERATING KUWAIT
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ON THEBIIlIS OP lBE PROPOSAL OJ TSB MJNl5TEll or DUItMIE TO IMIR OFTSB STATE OJ KDWArI lIAS GIlANTpoundI)
QADI fRREI MEDALOr 1IBEPATlNGKUWArI IN AJIlIUCJAllON OPTBB NOBtamp WOlD[ TBAT CONTJUBU lED 10
IJMRATING KUWAlT
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FROM DFRT 51 5 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDER(PRB) ~ COpy NO 1
OUTWARD CABLEGRAM 0CE515Z16 APBO
0OE54521 1155 2808S UNC
TO RR RIVADHl6971
REF 0RV1927
U N Q LAS S l FIE D
~UNAlT LlBERATION HIDALS
FROH FILE 9210138$5 0
CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
cOpy BE FAXED ro PROrOCOL BRANCH - FAX Z613455) i c ~s mc z 10)HAVE ANY GOVERNHENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INVOLVED IN THE
zMATTER PRIOR TO THE PEL IVERY OF THE MEDALS lgt
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HAVE THE KUWAITIS PROVIDED ANY OTHER INFORMATIONINSTRUCTIONS Z iREGARDING rHe MEDALS 2 Jl
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WERE MEDALS PROVIDED TO OTHER EMBASSIES IN RIYADHKUWAIT 0 ~ WHOSE CITIZENS NERe INVOLVED IN THE CAMPAIGN 0
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2 IN ADDITION TO A FAX OF THE CERTIFICATE COULD YOU ALSO FAX A DRAWING OR REASONABLE PHDTOCOPV OF THE tlEDAL UNO RIBBON)
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DISTRIBUTION IS LIHITED ONLY TO
~CTION MRMCOSTELLO
ACTION tlRJHEARDERtPRI) FBB
MRHCOSTELLO(SEC) TlT MRJMCCARTHY(DlS) TT MSSTAHHER(EXB) 11T MRRLAURIE(PMD) MRJDOLLIMORE(MAB) MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
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16 J~ 96 11347 FRQ1 llFAT 61 6 261J45S TO a26S62a6
ACTION RJe~RDER(PRB)
COpy NO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM 0ItYU27 NDAl
TOR 2217 2D08950RY192r 1553 200895 UNe
TO RR CANBERRA
FM UYADH FA
U H C L A $ S I f liD
KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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WHO TOOK PUT IN THE WAR LIBERATING kUWAIT I 1ft 2l
2 GRATEfUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDAWS SHOULD BE SENT AND 0WORDING OF ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO n nTHE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS 0 0
0
CM COWELL ADMIN PBAOOU8 I 1fti i5 g 2
raquoDISTRIBUTION IS LIMITED ONLY TO t (5
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
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igt Article from US Amy r6ember 271995 ~~ -l__
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
MINUTE
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
------
2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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Defence Penlonnel executive
MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
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bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
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IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
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IlBlJtATING KUWAIT MEDAL CiRlDICATE
ON 111amp BASU0 TBamp PIlOJIOSampL OJ TIlE MJNISlER OF DBIDMB TIIampDIIR OBTD STATE OJ KUWAn BAS GRANJZI)
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29 flG 95 17B2 FF1J1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TO 0-26562il6
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U N C LAS S I fIE D
kUNAIT LIBERAlIOH MEDALS
FROM FlU U013835
COULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN REGARD TO THE SEVEN HUNDRED EDAlS AND CERTIFIC4TES DELIVERED TO THE EM8ASSY
ARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS
WAS A LXST OF RECIPIENTS PROVIDED
WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES1 (COULD A COPY BE FAXED TO PROTOCOL BRANCM - FAX 2613455)
HAVE ANY GOVERNMENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INYOLVED IN THE MATTER PRIOR TO THE DELIVERY OF TilE SDALS r
HAVE rHE kUWAITIS PROVIDED ANY OTHER INFORMATIONINSTRUCTIONS REGARDING THE MEDALS
MERE MEDALS PROVIDED TO OTHER EMBASSIES IN RIYADHkUWAIT WHOSE CITIZENS WERE INVOLVED IN THE CAMPAIGN
2 IN ADDITION TO A fAX OF THE CERTXFICATE COULD YOU ALSO FAX A DRAWING OR REASONA8lE PHOTOCOPY OF THE MEDAL (AND RII~80N)
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AOTION MRMCOSTELLO
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INWARD CABLEGRAM 0RYl927 NDAL
TOR 2217 2008_5ORY127 1555 ZO08S UNC
TO IR CANBERRA
U H C L A $ $ I FIE D
lUNAIT LIBERATION MeDALS
fOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND HAB SECTION
THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIYADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVEN HUNpgED KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDALS AND CERTIfICATES WHICH THEY ASK TO 8~ PRESENTED TO AUSTRALIAN TROOPS WHO TOOK PART IN THE WAR LIBERATING KUWAIT
2 GRATEFUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDALS SHOULD BE SENT AND WORDING Of ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE fORWARDED TO THE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS
ACTIOH MRMCOSTElLO
ACTIONS MRJHEARDER(PRB) FBB
MRMcaS1ELlO(SEC) 11 HRJHCCARTHY(DS) 1T MSSTANNERCEXB) TT MRRLAURIE(PMD)MRJDOLlIMOREtMABJ MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
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THE KUWAIT EIIBIISST AcCEPTING TN EDALS ~
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HEADQUARTERS AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICES PERSONNEL POLICY
RUSSELL OFFICES CANBERRA ACT 2600 FACSIMILE NUMBER (06) 2656206
TO Sue jorgensen ---shy FROM Mr Pat Clarke-rADDRESS DFAT -middotmiddot----middot-1-APPT Staff OffICer Grade 2 1
j tFAXNO261 2673
Ceremonial ___==FAX NO 265 6206 _
II
lIE=EJ~~O61 2640 _ -J TELlsect NO 265 ~~---__ -1 DATE OF THIS fAX 10 Jan 96 +--___ iINO OF PAGES (IN~ THIsectL~__L-_ _ ____ __J
Dear Sue
In reference to our telephone conversation yesterday regarding the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government ofKuwait enclosed is the article from the US Anny Times as discussed
It is interesting to note that the US have also been short changed by about 200000 medals I have spoken to the Defence Attache at the US Embassy about the medal and how the US intend to treat the shortfall ie will they accept it and issue the medals on a first in fist served basis or go hack to the Kuwait Government and request more I hope to have an answer tomorrow and win advise you accordingly From that I believe that we may be able to come up with a way ahead on our shortfall
I am stiD chasing up the full numbers expected for Australia and will also advise you when known This will take a little longer
Regards
Pat Clarke
-~-------~----~ ~~----------
bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull bullbullbullbull ~
ftIInIN_ber2719951~ $~i ~bull
Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
~ ~
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16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
GIS l6i5 l5l3 GlSl6i5Q06
~ Tehp--Namhn Fw esect bullbull Namber
Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
I
16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
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~UMAIT LIBERATION KEDALS
to FILE 920013835 0
bull PLEASE COULD yoU PROVlDE AN UPDATE ON THE SITUATlOH WITH m gt RESPECT TO WHAT WE ARE TO DO WI1H THE SEVEN HUNDRED KUWAIT JJ
9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
CII COWELL ADMIN P8U278
ACTION KRGFORRESTER
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DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
Noo1= COVER PUlS EXGJi1
Too DSPl OF DBlBNCB A11BNTION SBRVJCBS PEIISONNEt POLICY - S02 PAT Ct NtKB
sr~ 0laquo FAX 2656206 -- ctk
JOHN RUTHERFORD ( PHONE (06) 261-2917 FAX (06) 261 3455
KUWAIT uBERAnoN MEDAL
PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
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HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
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KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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2 GRATEfUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDAWS SHOULD BE SENT AND 0WORDING OF ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO n nTHE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS 0 0
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
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0OE545216 1155 28085 UNC
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FM CANBERRA R3 REF O RY1I27
U N C LAS S I fIE D
kUNAIT LIBERAlIOH MEDALS
FROM FlU U013835
COULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN REGARD TO THE SEVEN HUNDRED EDAlS AND CERTIFIC4TES DELIVERED TO THE EM8ASSY
ARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS
WAS A LXST OF RECIPIENTS PROVIDED
WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES1 (COULD A COPY BE FAXED TO PROTOCOL BRANCM - FAX 2613455)
HAVE ANY GOVERNMENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INYOLVED IN THE MATTER PRIOR TO THE DELIVERY OF TilE SDALS r
HAVE rHE kUWAITIS PROVIDED ANY OTHER INFORMATIONINSTRUCTIONS REGARDING THE MEDALS
MERE MEDALS PROVIDED TO OTHER EMBASSIES IN RIYADHkUWAIT WHOSE CITIZENS WERE INVOLVED IN THE CAMPAIGN
2 IN ADDITION TO A fAX OF THE CERTXFICATE COULD YOU ALSO FAX A DRAWING OR REASONA8lE PHOTOCOPY OF THE MEDAL (AND RII~80N)
eM J RUTHERFORD PSP 2917
DISTRIBUTION IS LIMITED ONLY TO
AOTION MRMCOSTELLO
ACTION MRJHEARDER(PRBI FBB
MRHCOSTELLO(SEC) TT MRJHCCARTHY(OS) TT KssrANNER(~XBl rT HRRLAURIE(PMD)HRJDOLLIMORE(MAB) RPVARGHESE(PAD)
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ACTION KR~HEAIDER(PRBgt + COPY NO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM 0RYl927 NDAL
TOR 2217 2008_5ORY127 1555 ZO08S UNC
TO IR CANBERRA
U H C L A $ $ I FIE D
lUNAIT LIBERATION MeDALS
fOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND HAB SECTION
THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIYADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVEN HUNpgED KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDALS AND CERTIfICATES WHICH THEY ASK TO 8~ PRESENTED TO AUSTRALIAN TROOPS WHO TOOK PART IN THE WAR LIBERATING KUWAIT
2 GRATEFUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDALS SHOULD BE SENT AND WORDING Of ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE fORWARDED TO THE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS
ACTIOH MRMCOSTElLO
ACTIONS MRJHEARDER(PRB) FBB
MRMcaS1ELlO(SEC) 11 HRJHCCARTHY(DS) 1T MSSTANNERCEXB) TT MRRLAURIE(PMD)MRJDOLlIMOREtMABJ MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
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RECEIPT FOR CABLEGRAMS CAT B PRI SET NO 435
INMARD - ACTIONRN ClAS PREC PAGES COPIES
RV1927 UNC RR 1 1
MESSAGES IN SET 1 (1)PAGES IN SET 1 (1)
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FOl691415
Llt_e_m_1_S_e_r_ia_12_i8 IOUIGN AIFAIBSANJ) TBADB
To DEfENCE lNTEltNAllONAL DMSION
FaiJe NumbeD
An1ian Policy CoontiDldion Branch
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Date 2D 1995
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THE KUWAIT EIIBIISST AcCEPTING TN EDALS ~
IC COWELL ADIIiiN PBIIDDDS c
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 4
HEADQUARTERS AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICES PERSONNEL POLICY
RUSSELL OFFICES CANBERRA ACT 2600 FACSIMILE NUMBER (06) 2656206
TO Sue jorgensen ---shy FROM Mr Pat Clarke-rADDRESS DFAT -middotmiddot----middot-1-APPT Staff OffICer Grade 2 1
j tFAXNO261 2673
Ceremonial ___==FAX NO 265 6206 _
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lIE=EJ~~O61 2640 _ -J TELlsect NO 265 ~~---__ -1 DATE OF THIS fAX 10 Jan 96 +--___ iINO OF PAGES (IN~ THIsectL~__L-_ _ ____ __J
Dear Sue
In reference to our telephone conversation yesterday regarding the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government ofKuwait enclosed is the article from the US Anny Times as discussed
It is interesting to note that the US have also been short changed by about 200000 medals I have spoken to the Defence Attache at the US Embassy about the medal and how the US intend to treat the shortfall ie will they accept it and issue the medals on a first in fist served basis or go hack to the Kuwait Government and request more I hope to have an answer tomorrow and win advise you accordingly From that I believe that we may be able to come up with a way ahead on our shortfall
I am stiD chasing up the full numbers expected for Australia and will also advise you when known This will take a little longer
Regards
Pat Clarke
-~-------~----~ ~~----------
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Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
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16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
GIS l6i5 l5l3 GlSl6i5Q06
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Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
I
16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDERCPRB)cOpy HO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM O RY24U LOLA
TOR 1643 0801 ORY246~ 1312 070196 UNC
TO RR CANBERRA
FM RIYADH FA REF OCE545Z16
U N C LAS S I FIE D
~UMAIT LIBERATION KEDALS
to FILE 920013835 0
bull PLEASE COULD yoU PROVlDE AN UPDATE ON THE SITUATlOH WITH m gt RESPECT TO WHAT WE ARE TO DO WI1H THE SEVEN HUNDRED KUWAIT JJ
9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
CII COWELL ADMIN P8U278
ACTION KRGFORRESTER
AOTION MRJHEARDER(PRB) FIB
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DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
Noo1= COVER PUlS EXGJi1
Too DSPl OF DBlBNCB A11BNTION SBRVJCBS PEIISONNEt POLICY - S02 PAT Ct NtKB
sr~ 0laquo FAX 2656206 -- ctk
JOHN RUTHERFORD ( PHONE (06) 261-2917 FAX (06) 261 3455
KUWAIT uBERAnoN MEDAL
PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARlMSNT 011 ADHINISTNJTIVB SERVICES (MUtRDS AND NAl1ONAL SYMBOLS) HAVE NOT 10 THE BBST OF HJ KNOWLBDGB YBI RBCBIVlm ADVICE OF THE PROPOSAL AS DiSCUSSED YOU MAY WISH 10 APPROACH THBM USING THE ATTACHBI) INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE
------------ ---_ _
16 JAN 96 1045 FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455 PAGE 004
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In ~ to )OUr cable OCEM5218 rilpldlriO IN KIIweit LibIInItian MedId
AIIIId18CIleB cap) attIIe medIII ClDIIiIlCIIW lind 11I1on
Tho 1I1IICIIIIs not engrend hi 0IrIiIIcIIIM nat IMI1c8cf hn ie a p8cIIiIlt) put lhelWGlplanll
A Itt at IIWIIICIeU wee not pnMcIICI not wlllnl1IIIY dlltlllled ~ the ~ (trwIIIIfOn iiI1tIIdlId) limply aid to be h8ndad It) AuIItaIIan InICIpI WhO lOOk part In theWIt tit IIbII1ItIng of 1CampMIIIl
WellMl no I1ICIOIdI ar 1lIIY II 1II from any Aultralian AuIholIty for rned8lrt I _idhe Depallllent of Darlnae MCtiOllIp8dllclly COIIIIIIId with awlIrdIilt I11III1 be worth chIclkk1g wtthhem They would cemalnly have ntCIIIRIe of tme -v1Cemllll Vfho fDak pet In the __bull
IIWM CheIIkecI with fila BrIIIIh and US Embal_ In Ri)tIidh to Ind gut Ifthly twva had medal dellYwtIL M bOIl 0IUItrIes l8prlllntect In KLMitthly wcarId not wlIl_ to nIIlitIve tIlem In RIyadh The DdInce scuon Ollhe BItIIh EIQJ RI1I8IMIa Me NIt lhIri IIWIIICIIICI 1M medii about IwIt ~ The US 901 to check with their GII1bBIay In KUwaIt and wID OIl bIIck It) me
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ACTION KRJHEARDER(PRB) ~ COpy NO 1
OUTWARD CABLEGRAM 0CE515Z16 APBO
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REF 0RV1927
U N Q LAS S l FIE D
~UNAlT LlBERATION HIDALS
FROH FILE 9210138$5 0
CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
cOpy BE FAXED ro PROrOCOL BRANCH - FAX Z613455) i c ~s mc z 10)HAVE ANY GOVERNHENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INVOLVED IN THE
zMATTER PRIOR TO THE PEL IVERY OF THE MEDALS lgt
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bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
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igt Article from US Amy r6ember 271995 ~~ -l__
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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Defence Penlonnel executive
MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
Th~r 1 o~~1 vc 9~ -1T~
1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
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3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
TO B-265621il6FROM DFRT 61 6 2613455 29 fUl 95 1(lB1
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TO 0-2656206 fI-U 29 ~ 95 1702 FRCJ1 JlFAT 61 6 2613455
PSIUO 2S 95 liBf11m
MEDAL OF LlBERADNG IWWAIT
IlBlJtATING KUWAIT MEDAL CiRlDICATE
ON 111amp BASU0 TBamp PIlOJIOSampL OJ TIlE MJNISlER OF DBIDMB TIIampDIIR OBTD STATE OJ KUWAn BAS GRANJZI)
GI1tADBTllPgMEDAlOJrlau~I1NGIaJWAlTDI APPBICfATION or TBENOlILS WOllKlBATCONDIB1JTIDTO
IDDA11NGKDWAIT
DATE
29 flG 95 17B2 FF1J1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TO 0-26562il6
i ACTION RJHEARDER(PRB)
COpy NO 1
OUTWARD CABLEGRAM UCE545216 APBO
0OE545216 1155 28085 UNC
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FM CANBERRA R3 REF O RY1I27
U N C LAS S I fIE D
kUNAIT LIBERAlIOH MEDALS
FROM FlU U013835
COULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN REGARD TO THE SEVEN HUNDRED EDAlS AND CERTIFIC4TES DELIVERED TO THE EM8ASSY
ARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS
WAS A LXST OF RECIPIENTS PROVIDED
WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES1 (COULD A COPY BE FAXED TO PROTOCOL BRANCM - FAX 2613455)
HAVE ANY GOVERNMENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INYOLVED IN THE MATTER PRIOR TO THE DELIVERY OF TilE SDALS r
HAVE rHE kUWAITIS PROVIDED ANY OTHER INFORMATIONINSTRUCTIONS REGARDING THE MEDALS
MERE MEDALS PROVIDED TO OTHER EMBASSIES IN RIYADHkUWAIT WHOSE CITIZENS WERE INVOLVED IN THE CAMPAIGN
2 IN ADDITION TO A fAX OF THE CERTXFICATE COULD YOU ALSO FAX A DRAWING OR REASONA8lE PHOTOCOPY OF THE MEDAL (AND RII~80N)
eM J RUTHERFORD PSP 2917
DISTRIBUTION IS LIMITED ONLY TO
AOTION MRMCOSTELLO
ACTION MRJHEARDER(PRBI FBB
MRHCOSTELLO(SEC) TT MRJHCCARTHY(OS) TT KssrANNER(~XBl rT HRRLAURIE(PMD)HRJDOLLIMORE(MAB) RPVARGHESE(PAD)
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ACTION KR~HEAIDER(PRBgt + COPY NO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM 0RYl927 NDAL
TOR 2217 2008_5ORY127 1555 ZO08S UNC
TO IR CANBERRA
U H C L A $ $ I FIE D
lUNAIT LIBERATION MeDALS
fOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND HAB SECTION
THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIYADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVEN HUNpgED KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDALS AND CERTIfICATES WHICH THEY ASK TO 8~ PRESENTED TO AUSTRALIAN TROOPS WHO TOOK PART IN THE WAR LIBERATING KUWAIT
2 GRATEFUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDALS SHOULD BE SENT AND WORDING Of ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE fORWARDED TO THE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS
ACTIOH MRMCOSTElLO
ACTIONS MRJHEARDER(PRB) FBB
MRMcaS1ELlO(SEC) 11 HRJHCCARTHY(DS) 1T MSSTANNERCEXB) TT MRRLAURIE(PMD)MRJDOLlIMOREtMABJ MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
-----shy
-29 FUi 95 1703 FRO DFAT 61 6 2613455
RECEIPT FOR CABLEGRAMS CAT B PRI SET NO 435
INMARD - ACTIONRN ClAS PREC PAGES COPIES
RV1927 UNC RR 1 1
MESSAGES IN SET 1 (1)PAGES IN SET 1 (1)
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FOl691415
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To DEfENCE lNTEltNAllONAL DMSION
FaiJe NumbeD
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THE ltUWUT EIIB~ ElIVERED TODAY TO TNE AUSTRALUN f1f4 bullA~ EMBASSY IN RIYADH ISEVER--HUNDRED UNAIT UBERATJON EDALS AND f-- ~ CERTIFICATES WHICH ASIC T PItEUHTED TO IIUSTUUAN TROOPS 5 WHO TOOII PART IN TH~ WA 8ERATIN6 lCuWAIT 6 2 GRATEFUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE EDALS SHOULD 8E SENT AND ~ WORPIN6 OF ANT FOIAL COIRESPONDANCE IIHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO 0
THE KUWAIT EIIBIISST AcCEPTING TN EDALS ~
IC COWELL ADIIiiN PBIIDDDS c
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 4
HEADQUARTERS AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICES PERSONNEL POLICY
RUSSELL OFFICES CANBERRA ACT 2600 FACSIMILE NUMBER (06) 2656206
TO Sue jorgensen ---shy FROM Mr Pat Clarke-rADDRESS DFAT -middotmiddot----middot-1-APPT Staff OffICer Grade 2 1
j tFAXNO261 2673
Ceremonial ___==FAX NO 265 6206 _
II
lIE=EJ~~O61 2640 _ -J TELlsect NO 265 ~~---__ -1 DATE OF THIS fAX 10 Jan 96 +--___ iINO OF PAGES (IN~ THIsectL~__L-_ _ ____ __J
Dear Sue
In reference to our telephone conversation yesterday regarding the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government ofKuwait enclosed is the article from the US Anny Times as discussed
It is interesting to note that the US have also been short changed by about 200000 medals I have spoken to the Defence Attache at the US Embassy about the medal and how the US intend to treat the shortfall ie will they accept it and issue the medals on a first in fist served basis or go hack to the Kuwait Government and request more I hope to have an answer tomorrow and win advise you accordingly From that I believe that we may be able to come up with a way ahead on our shortfall
I am stiD chasing up the full numbers expected for Australia and will also advise you when known This will take a little longer
Regards
Pat Clarke
-~-------~----~ ~~----------
bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull bullbullbullbull ~
ftIInIN_ber2719951~ $~i ~bull
Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
~ ~
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~
16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
GIS l6i5 l5l3 GlSl6i5Q06
~ Tehp--Namhn Fw esect bullbull Namber
Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
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16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
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INWARD CABLEGRAM O RY24U LOLA
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TO RR CANBERRA
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9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
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PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
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PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARlMSNT 011 ADHINISTNJTIVB SERVICES (MUtRDS AND NAl1ONAL SYMBOLS) HAVE NOT 10 THE BBST OF HJ KNOWLBDGB YBI RBCBIVlm ADVICE OF THE PROPOSAL AS DiSCUSSED YOU MAY WISH 10 APPROACH THBM USING THE ATTACHBI) INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE
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16 JAN 96 1045 FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455 PAGE 004
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U N Q LAS S l FIE D
~UNAlT LlBERATION HIDALS
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CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
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KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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WHO TOOK PUT IN THE WAR LIBERATING kUWAIT I 1ft 2l
2 GRATEfUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDAWS SHOULD BE SENT AND 0WORDING OF ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO n nTHE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS 0 0
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
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14 COPIES
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- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
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2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
TO 0-2656206 fI-U 29 ~ 95 1702 FRCJ1 JlFAT 61 6 2613455
PSIUO 2S 95 liBf11m
MEDAL OF LlBERADNG IWWAIT
IlBlJtATING KUWAIT MEDAL CiRlDICATE
ON 111amp BASU0 TBamp PIlOJIOSampL OJ TIlE MJNISlER OF DBIDMB TIIampDIIR OBTD STATE OJ KUWAn BAS GRANJZI)
GI1tADBTllPgMEDAlOJrlau~I1NGIaJWAlTDI APPBICfATION or TBENOlILS WOllKlBATCONDIB1JTIDTO
IDDA11NGKDWAIT
DATE
29 flG 95 17B2 FF1J1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TO 0-26562il6
i ACTION RJHEARDER(PRB)
COpy NO 1
OUTWARD CABLEGRAM UCE545216 APBO
0OE545216 1155 28085 UNC
TO U RIYADIVU74
FM CANBERRA R3 REF O RY1I27
U N C LAS S I fIE D
kUNAIT LIBERAlIOH MEDALS
FROM FlU U013835
COULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN REGARD TO THE SEVEN HUNDRED EDAlS AND CERTIFIC4TES DELIVERED TO THE EM8ASSY
ARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS
WAS A LXST OF RECIPIENTS PROVIDED
WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES1 (COULD A COPY BE FAXED TO PROTOCOL BRANCM - FAX 2613455)
HAVE ANY GOVERNMENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INYOLVED IN THE MATTER PRIOR TO THE DELIVERY OF TilE SDALS r
HAVE rHE kUWAITIS PROVIDED ANY OTHER INFORMATIONINSTRUCTIONS REGARDING THE MEDALS
MERE MEDALS PROVIDED TO OTHER EMBASSIES IN RIYADHkUWAIT WHOSE CITIZENS WERE INVOLVED IN THE CAMPAIGN
2 IN ADDITION TO A fAX OF THE CERTXFICATE COULD YOU ALSO FAX A DRAWING OR REASONA8lE PHOTOCOPY OF THE MEDAL (AND RII~80N)
eM J RUTHERFORD PSP 2917
DISTRIBUTION IS LIMITED ONLY TO
AOTION MRMCOSTELLO
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ACTION KR~HEAIDER(PRBgt + COPY NO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM 0RYl927 NDAL
TOR 2217 2008_5ORY127 1555 ZO08S UNC
TO IR CANBERRA
U H C L A $ $ I FIE D
lUNAIT LIBERATION MeDALS
fOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND HAB SECTION
THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIYADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVEN HUNpgED KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDALS AND CERTIfICATES WHICH THEY ASK TO 8~ PRESENTED TO AUSTRALIAN TROOPS WHO TOOK PART IN THE WAR LIBERATING KUWAIT
2 GRATEFUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDALS SHOULD BE SENT AND WORDING Of ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE fORWARDED TO THE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS
ACTIOH MRMCOSTElLO
ACTIONS MRJHEARDER(PRB) FBB
MRMcaS1ELlO(SEC) 11 HRJHCCARTHY(DS) 1T MSSTANNERCEXB) TT MRRLAURIE(PMD)MRJDOLlIMOREtMABJ MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
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-29 FUi 95 1703 FRO DFAT 61 6 2613455
RECEIPT FOR CABLEGRAMS CAT B PRI SET NO 435
INMARD - ACTIONRN ClAS PREC PAGES COPIES
RV1927 UNC RR 1 1
MESSAGES IN SET 1 (1)PAGES IN SET 1 (1)
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FOl691415
Llt_e_m_1_S_e_r_ia_12_i8 IOUIGN AIFAIBSANJ) TBADB
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An1ian Policy CoontiDldion Branch
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HEADQUARTERS AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICES PERSONNEL POLICY
RUSSELL OFFICES CANBERRA ACT 2600 FACSIMILE NUMBER (06) 2656206
TO Sue jorgensen ---shy FROM Mr Pat Clarke-rADDRESS DFAT -middotmiddot----middot-1-APPT Staff OffICer Grade 2 1
j tFAXNO261 2673
Ceremonial ___==FAX NO 265 6206 _
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lIE=EJ~~O61 2640 _ -J TELlsect NO 265 ~~---__ -1 DATE OF THIS fAX 10 Jan 96 +--___ iINO OF PAGES (IN~ THIsectL~__L-_ _ ____ __J
Dear Sue
In reference to our telephone conversation yesterday regarding the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government ofKuwait enclosed is the article from the US Anny Times as discussed
It is interesting to note that the US have also been short changed by about 200000 medals I have spoken to the Defence Attache at the US Embassy about the medal and how the US intend to treat the shortfall ie will they accept it and issue the medals on a first in fist served basis or go hack to the Kuwait Government and request more I hope to have an answer tomorrow and win advise you accordingly From that I believe that we may be able to come up with a way ahead on our shortfall
I am stiD chasing up the full numbers expected for Australia and will also advise you when known This will take a little longer
Regards
Pat Clarke
-~-------~----~ ~~----------
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ftIInIN_ber2719951~ $~i ~bull
Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
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16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
GIS l6i5 l5l3 GlSl6i5Q06
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Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
I
16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDERCPRB)cOpy HO 1
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TOR 1643 0801 ORY246~ 1312 070196 UNC
TO RR CANBERRA
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~UMAIT LIBERATION KEDALS
to FILE 920013835 0
bull PLEASE COULD yoU PROVlDE AN UPDATE ON THE SITUATlOH WITH m gt RESPECT TO WHAT WE ARE TO DO WI1H THE SEVEN HUNDRED KUWAIT JJ
9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
CII COWELL ADMIN P8U278
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DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
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OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
Noo1= COVER PUlS EXGJi1
Too DSPl OF DBlBNCB A11BNTION SBRVJCBS PEIISONNEt POLICY - S02 PAT Ct NtKB
sr~ 0laquo FAX 2656206 -- ctk
JOHN RUTHERFORD ( PHONE (06) 261-2917 FAX (06) 261 3455
KUWAIT uBERAnoN MEDAL
PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARlMSNT 011 ADHINISTNJTIVB SERVICES (MUtRDS AND NAl1ONAL SYMBOLS) HAVE NOT 10 THE BBST OF HJ KNOWLBDGB YBI RBCBIVlm ADVICE OF THE PROPOSAL AS DiSCUSSED YOU MAY WISH 10 APPROACH THBM USING THE ATTACHBI) INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE
------------ ---_ _
16 JAN 96 1045 FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455 PAGE 004
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AIIIId18CIleB cap) attIIe medIII ClDIIiIlCIIW lind 11I1on
Tho 1I1IICIIIIs not engrend hi 0IrIiIIcIIIM nat IMI1c8cf hn ie a p8cIIiIlt) put lhelWGlplanll
A Itt at IIWIIICIeU wee not pnMcIICI not wlllnl1IIIY dlltlllled ~ the ~ (trwIIIIfOn iiI1tIIdlId) limply aid to be h8ndad It) AuIItaIIan InICIpI WhO lOOk part In theWIt tit IIbII1ItIng of 1CampMIIIl
WellMl no I1ICIOIdI ar 1lIIY II 1II from any Aultralian AuIholIty for rned8lrt I _idhe Depallllent of Darlnae MCtiOllIp8dllclly COIIIIIIId with awlIrdIilt I11III1 be worth chIclkk1g wtthhem They would cemalnly have ntCIIIRIe of tme -v1Cemllll Vfho fDak pet In the __bull
IIWM CheIIkecI with fila BrIIIIh and US Embal_ In Ri)tIidh to Ind gut Ifthly twva had medal dellYwtIL M bOIl 0IUItrIes l8prlllntect In KLMitthly wcarId not wlIl_ to nIIlitIve tIlem In RIyadh The DdInce scuon Ollhe BItIIh EIQJ RI1I8IMIa Me NIt lhIri IIWIIICIIICI 1M medii about IwIt ~ The US 901 to check with their GII1bBIay In KUwaIt and wID OIl bIIck It) me
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CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
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- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
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3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
29 flG 95 17B2 FF1J1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TO 0-26562il6
i ACTION RJHEARDER(PRB)
COpy NO 1
OUTWARD CABLEGRAM UCE545216 APBO
0OE545216 1155 28085 UNC
TO U RIYADIVU74
FM CANBERRA R3 REF O RY1I27
U N C LAS S I fIE D
kUNAIT LIBERAlIOH MEDALS
FROM FlU U013835
COULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN REGARD TO THE SEVEN HUNDRED EDAlS AND CERTIFIC4TES DELIVERED TO THE EM8ASSY
ARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS
WAS A LXST OF RECIPIENTS PROVIDED
WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES1 (COULD A COPY BE FAXED TO PROTOCOL BRANCM - FAX 2613455)
HAVE ANY GOVERNMENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INYOLVED IN THE MATTER PRIOR TO THE DELIVERY OF TilE SDALS r
HAVE rHE kUWAITIS PROVIDED ANY OTHER INFORMATIONINSTRUCTIONS REGARDING THE MEDALS
MERE MEDALS PROVIDED TO OTHER EMBASSIES IN RIYADHkUWAIT WHOSE CITIZENS WERE INVOLVED IN THE CAMPAIGN
2 IN ADDITION TO A fAX OF THE CERTXFICATE COULD YOU ALSO FAX A DRAWING OR REASONA8lE PHOTOCOPY OF THE MEDAL (AND RII~80N)
eM J RUTHERFORD PSP 2917
DISTRIBUTION IS LIMITED ONLY TO
AOTION MRMCOSTELLO
ACTION MRJHEARDER(PRBI FBB
MRHCOSTELLO(SEC) TT MRJHCCARTHY(OS) TT KssrANNER(~XBl rT HRRLAURIE(PMD)HRJDOLLIMORE(MAB) RPVARGHESE(PAD)
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ACTION KR~HEAIDER(PRBgt + COPY NO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM 0RYl927 NDAL
TOR 2217 2008_5ORY127 1555 ZO08S UNC
TO IR CANBERRA
U H C L A $ $ I FIE D
lUNAIT LIBERATION MeDALS
fOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND HAB SECTION
THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIYADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVEN HUNpgED KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDALS AND CERTIfICATES WHICH THEY ASK TO 8~ PRESENTED TO AUSTRALIAN TROOPS WHO TOOK PART IN THE WAR LIBERATING KUWAIT
2 GRATEFUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDALS SHOULD BE SENT AND WORDING Of ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE fORWARDED TO THE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS
ACTIOH MRMCOSTElLO
ACTIONS MRJHEARDER(PRB) FBB
MRMcaS1ELlO(SEC) 11 HRJHCCARTHY(DS) 1T MSSTANNERCEXB) TT MRRLAURIE(PMD)MRJDOLlIMOREtMABJ MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
-----shy
-29 FUi 95 1703 FRO DFAT 61 6 2613455
RECEIPT FOR CABLEGRAMS CAT B PRI SET NO 435
INMARD - ACTIONRN ClAS PREC PAGES COPIES
RV1927 UNC RR 1 1
MESSAGES IN SET 1 (1)PAGES IN SET 1 (1)
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THE KUWAIT EIIBIISST AcCEPTING TN EDALS ~
IC COWELL ADIIiiN PBIIDDDS c
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 4
HEADQUARTERS AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICES PERSONNEL POLICY
RUSSELL OFFICES CANBERRA ACT 2600 FACSIMILE NUMBER (06) 2656206
TO Sue jorgensen ---shy FROM Mr Pat Clarke-rADDRESS DFAT -middotmiddot----middot-1-APPT Staff OffICer Grade 2 1
j tFAXNO261 2673
Ceremonial ___==FAX NO 265 6206 _
II
lIE=EJ~~O61 2640 _ -J TELlsect NO 265 ~~---__ -1 DATE OF THIS fAX 10 Jan 96 +--___ iINO OF PAGES (IN~ THIsectL~__L-_ _ ____ __J
Dear Sue
In reference to our telephone conversation yesterday regarding the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government ofKuwait enclosed is the article from the US Anny Times as discussed
It is interesting to note that the US have also been short changed by about 200000 medals I have spoken to the Defence Attache at the US Embassy about the medal and how the US intend to treat the shortfall ie will they accept it and issue the medals on a first in fist served basis or go hack to the Kuwait Government and request more I hope to have an answer tomorrow and win advise you accordingly From that I believe that we may be able to come up with a way ahead on our shortfall
I am stiD chasing up the full numbers expected for Australia and will also advise you when known This will take a little longer
Regards
Pat Clarke
-~-------~----~ ~~----------
bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull bullbullbullbull ~
ftIInIN_ber2719951~ $~i ~bull
Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
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16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
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Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
I
16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDERCPRB)cOpy HO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM O RY24U LOLA
TOR 1643 0801 ORY246~ 1312 070196 UNC
TO RR CANBERRA
FM RIYADH FA REF OCE545Z16
U N C LAS S I FIE D
~UMAIT LIBERATION KEDALS
to FILE 920013835 0
bull PLEASE COULD yoU PROVlDE AN UPDATE ON THE SITUATlOH WITH m gt RESPECT TO WHAT WE ARE TO DO WI1H THE SEVEN HUNDRED KUWAIT JJ
9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
CII COWELL ADMIN P8U278
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DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
Noo1= COVER PUlS EXGJi1
Too DSPl OF DBlBNCB A11BNTION SBRVJCBS PEIISONNEt POLICY - S02 PAT Ct NtKB
sr~ 0laquo FAX 2656206 -- ctk
JOHN RUTHERFORD ( PHONE (06) 261-2917 FAX (06) 261 3455
KUWAIT uBERAnoN MEDAL
PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARlMSNT 011 ADHINISTNJTIVB SERVICES (MUtRDS AND NAl1ONAL SYMBOLS) HAVE NOT 10 THE BBST OF HJ KNOWLBDGB YBI RBCBIVlm ADVICE OF THE PROPOSAL AS DiSCUSSED YOU MAY WISH 10 APPROACH THBM USING THE ATTACHBI) INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE
------------ ---_ _
16 JAN 96 1045 FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455 PAGE 004
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16 JAN 96 1il 4S FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455
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MEDAL 011 LIBERATING KUWAIT
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ACTION KRJHEARDER(PRB) ~ COpy NO 1
OUTWARD CABLEGRAM 0CE515Z16 APBO
0OE54521 1155 2808S UNC
TO RR RIVADHl6971
REF 0RV1927
U N Q LAS S l FIE D
~UNAlT LlBERATION HIDALS
FROH FILE 9210138$5 0
CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
cOpy BE FAXED ro PROrOCOL BRANCH - FAX Z613455) i c ~s mc z 10)HAVE ANY GOVERNHENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INVOLVED IN THE
zMATTER PRIOR TO THE PEL IVERY OF THE MEDALS lgt
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WERE MEDALS PROVIDED TO OTHER EMBASSIES IN RIYADHKUWAIT 0 ~ WHOSE CITIZENS NERe INVOLVED IN THE CAMPAIGN 0
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2 IN ADDITION TO A FAX OF THE CERTIFICATE COULD YOU ALSO FAX A DRAWING OR REASONABLE PHDTOCOPV OF THE tlEDAL UNO RIBBON)
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DISTRIBUTION IS LIHITED ONLY TO
~CTION MRMCOSTELLO
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MRHCOSTELLO(SEC) TlT MRJMCCARTHY(DlS) TT MSSTAHHER(EXB) 11T MRRLAURIE(PMD) MRJDOLLIMORE(MAB) MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
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ACTION RJe~RDER(PRB)
COpy NO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM 0ItYU27 NDAl
TOR 2217 2D08950RY192r 1553 200895 UNe
TO RR CANBERRA
FM UYADH FA
U H C L A $ S I f liD
KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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WHO TOOK PUT IN THE WAR LIBERATING kUWAIT I 1ft 2l
2 GRATEfUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDAWS SHOULD BE SENT AND 0WORDING OF ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO n nTHE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS 0 0
0
CM COWELL ADMIN PBAOOU8 I 1fti i5 g 2
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
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igt Article from US Amy r6ember 271995 ~~ -l__
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
------
2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
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ACTION KR~HEAIDER(PRBgt + COPY NO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM 0RYl927 NDAL
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TO IR CANBERRA
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lUNAIT LIBERATION MeDALS
fOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND HAB SECTION
THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIYADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVEN HUNpgED KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDALS AND CERTIfICATES WHICH THEY ASK TO 8~ PRESENTED TO AUSTRALIAN TROOPS WHO TOOK PART IN THE WAR LIBERATING KUWAIT
2 GRATEFUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDALS SHOULD BE SENT AND WORDING Of ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE fORWARDED TO THE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS
ACTIOH MRMCOSTElLO
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HEADQUARTERS AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICES PERSONNEL POLICY
RUSSELL OFFICES CANBERRA ACT 2600 FACSIMILE NUMBER (06) 2656206
TO Sue jorgensen ---shy FROM Mr Pat Clarke-rADDRESS DFAT -middotmiddot----middot-1-APPT Staff OffICer Grade 2 1
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Ceremonial ___==FAX NO 265 6206 _
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lIE=EJ~~O61 2640 _ -J TELlsect NO 265 ~~---__ -1 DATE OF THIS fAX 10 Jan 96 +--___ iINO OF PAGES (IN~ THIsectL~__L-_ _ ____ __J
Dear Sue
In reference to our telephone conversation yesterday regarding the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government ofKuwait enclosed is the article from the US Anny Times as discussed
It is interesting to note that the US have also been short changed by about 200000 medals I have spoken to the Defence Attache at the US Embassy about the medal and how the US intend to treat the shortfall ie will they accept it and issue the medals on a first in fist served basis or go hack to the Kuwait Government and request more I hope to have an answer tomorrow and win advise you accordingly From that I believe that we may be able to come up with a way ahead on our shortfall
I am stiD chasing up the full numbers expected for Australia and will also advise you when known This will take a little longer
Regards
Pat Clarke
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Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
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16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
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SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
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16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
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to FILE 920013835 0
bull PLEASE COULD yoU PROVlDE AN UPDATE ON THE SITUATlOH WITH m gt RESPECT TO WHAT WE ARE TO DO WI1H THE SEVEN HUNDRED KUWAIT JJ
9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
CII COWELL ADMIN P8U278
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DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
Noo1= COVER PUlS EXGJi1
Too DSPl OF DBlBNCB A11BNTION SBRVJCBS PEIISONNEt POLICY - S02 PAT Ct NtKB
sr~ 0laquo FAX 2656206 -- ctk
JOHN RUTHERFORD ( PHONE (06) 261-2917 FAX (06) 261 3455
KUWAIT uBERAnoN MEDAL
PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARlMSNT 011 ADHINISTNJTIVB SERVICES (MUtRDS AND NAl1ONAL SYMBOLS) HAVE NOT 10 THE BBST OF HJ KNOWLBDGB YBI RBCBIVlm ADVICE OF THE PROPOSAL AS DiSCUSSED YOU MAY WISH 10 APPROACH THBM USING THE ATTACHBI) INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE
------------ ---_ _
16 JAN 96 1045 FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455 PAGE 004
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IIWM CheIIkecI with fila BrIIIIh and US Embal_ In Ri)tIidh to Ind gut Ifthly twva had medal dellYwtIL M bOIl 0IUItrIes l8prlllntect In KLMitthly wcarId not wlIl_ to nIIlitIve tIlem In RIyadh The DdInce scuon Ollhe BItIIh EIQJ RI1I8IMIa Me NIt lhIri IIWIIICIIICI 1M medii about IwIt ~ The US 901 to check with their GII1bBIay In KUwaIt and wID OIl bIIck It) me
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CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
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3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
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a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
-29 FUi 95 1703 FRO DFAT 61 6 2613455
RECEIPT FOR CABLEGRAMS CAT B PRI SET NO 435
INMARD - ACTIONRN ClAS PREC PAGES COPIES
RV1927 UNC RR 1 1
MESSAGES IN SET 1 (1)PAGES IN SET 1 (1)
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ZOIOS S5 1888 008 2602033 DlIPLS DEFfCllR ACPBPS DIV ilOOl IDSIB2B22B4e PA(EI 112
FOl691415
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To DEfENCE lNTEltNAllONAL DMSION
FaiJe NumbeD
An1ian Policy CoontiDldion Branch
Paps iDduding this foJm 1
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Date 2D 1995
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f tV I yen I lUMAXT LIBERATION EDILS III FOR PROTOCOL SECTION jlND KU SECTION ~~ Q~
THE ltUWUT EIIB~ ElIVERED TODAY TO TNE AUSTRALUN f1f4 bullA~ EMBASSY IN RIYADH ISEVER--HUNDRED UNAIT UBERATJON EDALS AND f-- ~ CERTIFICATES WHICH ASIC T PItEUHTED TO IIUSTUUAN TROOPS 5 WHO TOOII PART IN TH~ WA 8ERATIN6 lCuWAIT 6 2 GRATEFUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE EDALS SHOULD 8E SENT AND ~ WORPIN6 OF ANT FOIAL COIRESPONDANCE IIHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO 0
THE KUWAIT EIIBIISST AcCEPTING TN EDALS ~
IC COWELL ADIIiiN PBIIDDDS c
DISTRIBUTION IS
ACTION RlICOSTELLO
ACTION MRJHEAIDEI(PRB)
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 4
HEADQUARTERS AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICES PERSONNEL POLICY
RUSSELL OFFICES CANBERRA ACT 2600 FACSIMILE NUMBER (06) 2656206
TO Sue jorgensen ---shy FROM Mr Pat Clarke-rADDRESS DFAT -middotmiddot----middot-1-APPT Staff OffICer Grade 2 1
j tFAXNO261 2673
Ceremonial ___==FAX NO 265 6206 _
II
lIE=EJ~~O61 2640 _ -J TELlsect NO 265 ~~---__ -1 DATE OF THIS fAX 10 Jan 96 +--___ iINO OF PAGES (IN~ THIsectL~__L-_ _ ____ __J
Dear Sue
In reference to our telephone conversation yesterday regarding the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government ofKuwait enclosed is the article from the US Anny Times as discussed
It is interesting to note that the US have also been short changed by about 200000 medals I have spoken to the Defence Attache at the US Embassy about the medal and how the US intend to treat the shortfall ie will they accept it and issue the medals on a first in fist served basis or go hack to the Kuwait Government and request more I hope to have an answer tomorrow and win advise you accordingly From that I believe that we may be able to come up with a way ahead on our shortfall
I am stiD chasing up the full numbers expected for Australia and will also advise you when known This will take a little longer
Regards
Pat Clarke
-~-------~----~ ~~----------
bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull bullbullbullbull ~
ftIInIN_ber2719951~ $~i ~bull
Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
~ ~
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16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
GIS l6i5 l5l3 GlSl6i5Q06
~ Tehp--Namhn Fw esect bullbull Namber
Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
I
16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDERCPRB)cOpy HO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM O RY24U LOLA
TOR 1643 0801 ORY246~ 1312 070196 UNC
TO RR CANBERRA
FM RIYADH FA REF OCE545Z16
U N C LAS S I FIE D
~UMAIT LIBERATION KEDALS
to FILE 920013835 0
bull PLEASE COULD yoU PROVlDE AN UPDATE ON THE SITUATlOH WITH m gt RESPECT TO WHAT WE ARE TO DO WI1H THE SEVEN HUNDRED KUWAIT JJ
9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
CII COWELL ADMIN P8U278
ACTION KRGFORRESTER
AOTION MRJHEARDER(PRB) FIB
MRMCOSTELLO(SEC) TT MRRSLAURIE(DS) TT MRLROWE bullbull CEXB) TT MRJBURSESSCPMD) TT MRKSKELLY(KAB) TT KIPVARGHESE(PAD) TT
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16 JAN 96 1045 FROM FAT 61 6 2613455 bull
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
Noo1= COVER PUlS EXGJi1
Too DSPl OF DBlBNCB A11BNTION SBRVJCBS PEIISONNEt POLICY - S02 PAT Ct NtKB
sr~ 0laquo FAX 2656206 -- ctk
JOHN RUTHERFORD ( PHONE (06) 261-2917 FAX (06) 261 3455
KUWAIT uBERAnoN MEDAL
PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
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CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
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KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
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2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
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3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
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THE ltUWUT EIIB~ ElIVERED TODAY TO TNE AUSTRALUN f1f4 bullA~ EMBASSY IN RIYADH ISEVER--HUNDRED UNAIT UBERATJON EDALS AND f-- ~ CERTIFICATES WHICH ASIC T PItEUHTED TO IIUSTUUAN TROOPS 5 WHO TOOII PART IN TH~ WA 8ERATIN6 lCuWAIT 6 2 GRATEFUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE EDALS SHOULD 8E SENT AND ~ WORPIN6 OF ANT FOIAL COIRESPONDANCE IIHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO 0
THE KUWAIT EIIBIISST AcCEPTING TN EDALS ~
IC COWELL ADIIiiN PBIIDDDS c
DISTRIBUTION IS
ACTION RlICOSTELLO
ACTION MRJHEAIDEI(PRB)
RftCOSTELLOCSEC) TT SSTANNERCEXB) TT 1IlAURI~CPD) KRJDalLIIIORECIIAB)
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 4
HEADQUARTERS AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICES PERSONNEL POLICY
RUSSELL OFFICES CANBERRA ACT 2600 FACSIMILE NUMBER (06) 2656206
TO Sue jorgensen ---shy FROM Mr Pat Clarke-rADDRESS DFAT -middotmiddot----middot-1-APPT Staff OffICer Grade 2 1
j tFAXNO261 2673
Ceremonial ___==FAX NO 265 6206 _
II
lIE=EJ~~O61 2640 _ -J TELlsect NO 265 ~~---__ -1 DATE OF THIS fAX 10 Jan 96 +--___ iINO OF PAGES (IN~ THIsectL~__L-_ _ ____ __J
Dear Sue
In reference to our telephone conversation yesterday regarding the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government ofKuwait enclosed is the article from the US Anny Times as discussed
It is interesting to note that the US have also been short changed by about 200000 medals I have spoken to the Defence Attache at the US Embassy about the medal and how the US intend to treat the shortfall ie will they accept it and issue the medals on a first in fist served basis or go hack to the Kuwait Government and request more I hope to have an answer tomorrow and win advise you accordingly From that I believe that we may be able to come up with a way ahead on our shortfall
I am stiD chasing up the full numbers expected for Australia and will also advise you when known This will take a little longer
Regards
Pat Clarke
-~-------~----~ ~~----------
bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull bullbullbullbull ~
ftIInIN_ber2719951~ $~i ~bull
Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
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16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
GIS l6i5 l5l3 GlSl6i5Q06
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Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
I
16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDERCPRB)cOpy HO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM O RY24U LOLA
TOR 1643 0801 ORY246~ 1312 070196 UNC
TO RR CANBERRA
FM RIYADH FA REF OCE545Z16
U N C LAS S I FIE D
~UMAIT LIBERATION KEDALS
to FILE 920013835 0
bull PLEASE COULD yoU PROVlDE AN UPDATE ON THE SITUATlOH WITH m gt RESPECT TO WHAT WE ARE TO DO WI1H THE SEVEN HUNDRED KUWAIT JJ
9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
CII COWELL ADMIN P8U278
ACTION KRGFORRESTER
AOTION MRJHEARDER(PRB) FIB
MRMCOSTELLO(SEC) TT MRRSLAURIE(DS) TT MRLROWE bullbull CEXB) TT MRJBURSESSCPMD) TT MRKSKELLY(KAB) TT KIPVARGHESE(PAD) TT
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16 JAN 96 1045 FROM FAT 61 6 2613455 bull
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
Noo1= COVER PUlS EXGJi1
Too DSPl OF DBlBNCB A11BNTION SBRVJCBS PEIISONNEt POLICY - S02 PAT Ct NtKB
sr~ 0laquo FAX 2656206 -- ctk
JOHN RUTHERFORD ( PHONE (06) 261-2917 FAX (06) 261 3455
KUWAIT uBERAnoN MEDAL
PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARlMSNT 011 ADHINISTNJTIVB SERVICES (MUtRDS AND NAl1ONAL SYMBOLS) HAVE NOT 10 THE BBST OF HJ KNOWLBDGB YBI RBCBIVlm ADVICE OF THE PROPOSAL AS DiSCUSSED YOU MAY WISH 10 APPROACH THBM USING THE ATTACHBI) INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE
------------ ---_ _
16 JAN 96 1045 FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455 PAGE 004
Pl
J IWIhoIfvnI PlolDclol DFAT CIlIUmI
Fax 0061 e 281 34S5
In ~ to )OUr cable OCEM5218 rilpldlriO IN KIIweit LibIInItian MedId
AIIIId18CIleB cap) attIIe medIII ClDIIiIlCIIW lind 11I1on
Tho 1I1IICIIIIs not engrend hi 0IrIiIIcIIIM nat IMI1c8cf hn ie a p8cIIiIlt) put lhelWGlplanll
A Itt at IIWIIICIeU wee not pnMcIICI not wlllnl1IIIY dlltlllled ~ the ~ (trwIIIIfOn iiI1tIIdlId) limply aid to be h8ndad It) AuIItaIIan InICIpI WhO lOOk part In theWIt tit IIbII1ItIng of 1CampMIIIl
WellMl no I1ICIOIdI ar 1lIIY II 1II from any Aultralian AuIholIty for rned8lrt I _idhe Depallllent of Darlnae MCtiOllIp8dllclly COIIIIIIId with awlIrdIilt I11III1 be worth chIclkk1g wtthhem They would cemalnly have ntCIIIRIe of tme -v1Cemllll Vfho fDak pet In the __bull
IIWM CheIIkecI with fila BrIIIIh and US Embal_ In Ri)tIidh to Ind gut Ifthly twva had medal dellYwtIL M bOIl 0IUItrIes l8prlllntect In KLMitthly wcarId not wlIl_ to nIIlitIve tIlem In RIyadh The DdInce scuon Ollhe BItIIh EIQJ RI1I8IMIa Me NIt lhIri IIWIIICIIICI 1M medii about IwIt ~ The US 901 to check with their GII1bBIay In KUwaIt and wID OIl bIIck It) me
16 JAN 96 1il 4S FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455
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16 JAN 96 1B45 FROM IlFAT 61 6 2613455 TO 02656206
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MEDAL 011 LIBERATING KUWAIT
UJlUATlNGKUWAlTMDAL oamlCATE
ON THEBIIlIS OP lBE PROPOSAL OJ TSB MJNl5TEll or DUItMIE TO IMIR OFTSB STATE OJ KDWArI lIAS GIlANTpoundI)
QADI fRREI MEDALOr 1IBEPATlNGKUWArI IN AJIlIUCJAllON OPTBB NOBtamp WOlD[ TBAT CONTJUBU lED 10
IJMRATING KUWAlT
DATI
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FROM DFRT 51 5 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDER(PRB) ~ COpy NO 1
OUTWARD CABLEGRAM 0CE515Z16 APBO
0OE54521 1155 2808S UNC
TO RR RIVADHl6971
REF 0RV1927
U N Q LAS S l FIE D
~UNAlT LlBERATION HIDALS
FROH FILE 9210138$5 0
CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
cOpy BE FAXED ro PROrOCOL BRANCH - FAX Z613455) i c ~s mc z 10)HAVE ANY GOVERNHENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INVOLVED IN THE
zMATTER PRIOR TO THE PEL IVERY OF THE MEDALS lgt
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HAVE THE KUWAITIS PROVIDED ANY OTHER INFORMATIONINSTRUCTIONS Z iREGARDING rHe MEDALS 2 Jl
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WERE MEDALS PROVIDED TO OTHER EMBASSIES IN RIYADHKUWAIT 0 ~ WHOSE CITIZENS NERe INVOLVED IN THE CAMPAIGN 0
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2 IN ADDITION TO A FAX OF THE CERTIFICATE COULD YOU ALSO FAX A DRAWING OR REASONABLE PHDTOCOPV OF THE tlEDAL UNO RIBBON)
eM J RUTHERFORD Psp 2917 bull
DISTRIBUTION IS LIHITED ONLY TO
~CTION MRMCOSTELLO
ACTION tlRJHEARDERtPRI) FBB
MRHCOSTELLO(SEC) TlT MRJMCCARTHY(DlS) TT MSSTAHHER(EXB) 11T MRRLAURIE(PMD) MRJDOLLIMORE(MAB) MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
0 m
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16 J~ 96 11347 FRQ1 llFAT 61 6 261J45S TO a26S62a6
ACTION RJe~RDER(PRB)
COpy NO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM 0ItYU27 NDAl
TOR 2217 2D08950RY192r 1553 200895 UNe
TO RR CANBERRA
FM UYADH FA
U H C L A $ S I f liD
KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
s ~
WHO TOOK PUT IN THE WAR LIBERATING kUWAIT I 1ft 2l
2 GRATEfUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDAWS SHOULD BE SENT AND 0WORDING OF ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO n nTHE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS 0 0
0
CM COWELL ADMIN PBAOOU8 I 1fti i5 g 2
raquoDISTRIBUTION IS LIMITED ONLY TO t (5
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ACTION MRMCOSTELLO 5iii raquo
Z0 0 C ACT IOH MRJHEARDER(PRB) FBB Il
lgt 0MRHCOSTEllO(SEC) TT HRJMCCAATHY(DS) TT ITgt
MSSTAHNER(EXB) TT MRRLAURIE(PMO)HRJOOllIKORE(MAB) KRPVARGHESE(PAO)
TOTAL PAGEBla bullbull
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Enclosure
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
shy
~ shy
igt Article from US Amy r6ember 271995 ~~ -l__
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
b
UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
MINUTE
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
------
2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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Defence Penlonnel executive
MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
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3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
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bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
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IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
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f tV I yen I lUMAXT LIBERATION EDILS III FOR PROTOCOL SECTION jlND KU SECTION ~~ Q~
THE ltUWUT EIIB~ ElIVERED TODAY TO TNE AUSTRALUN f1f4 bullA~ EMBASSY IN RIYADH ISEVER--HUNDRED UNAIT UBERATJON EDALS AND f-- ~ CERTIFICATES WHICH ASIC T PItEUHTED TO IIUSTUUAN TROOPS 5 WHO TOOII PART IN TH~ WA 8ERATIN6 lCuWAIT 6 2 GRATEFUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE EDALS SHOULD 8E SENT AND ~ WORPIN6 OF ANT FOIAL COIRESPONDANCE IIHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO 0
THE KUWAIT EIIBIISST AcCEPTING TN EDALS ~
IC COWELL ADIIiiN PBIIDDDS c
DISTRIBUTION IS
ACTION RlICOSTELLO
ACTION MRJHEAIDEI(PRB)
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 4
HEADQUARTERS AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICES PERSONNEL POLICY
RUSSELL OFFICES CANBERRA ACT 2600 FACSIMILE NUMBER (06) 2656206
TO Sue jorgensen ---shy FROM Mr Pat Clarke-rADDRESS DFAT -middotmiddot----middot-1-APPT Staff OffICer Grade 2 1
j tFAXNO261 2673
Ceremonial ___==FAX NO 265 6206 _
II
lIE=EJ~~O61 2640 _ -J TELlsect NO 265 ~~---__ -1 DATE OF THIS fAX 10 Jan 96 +--___ iINO OF PAGES (IN~ THIsectL~__L-_ _ ____ __J
Dear Sue
In reference to our telephone conversation yesterday regarding the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government ofKuwait enclosed is the article from the US Anny Times as discussed
It is interesting to note that the US have also been short changed by about 200000 medals I have spoken to the Defence Attache at the US Embassy about the medal and how the US intend to treat the shortfall ie will they accept it and issue the medals on a first in fist served basis or go hack to the Kuwait Government and request more I hope to have an answer tomorrow and win advise you accordingly From that I believe that we may be able to come up with a way ahead on our shortfall
I am stiD chasing up the full numbers expected for Australia and will also advise you when known This will take a little longer
Regards
Pat Clarke
-~-------~----~ ~~----------
bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull bullbullbullbull ~
ftIInIN_ber2719951~ $~i ~bull
Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
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16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
GIS l6i5 l5l3 GlSl6i5Q06
~ Tehp--Namhn Fw esect bullbull Namber
Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
I
16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDERCPRB)cOpy HO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM O RY24U LOLA
TOR 1643 0801 ORY246~ 1312 070196 UNC
TO RR CANBERRA
FM RIYADH FA REF OCE545Z16
U N C LAS S I FIE D
~UMAIT LIBERATION KEDALS
to FILE 920013835 0
bull PLEASE COULD yoU PROVlDE AN UPDATE ON THE SITUATlOH WITH m gt RESPECT TO WHAT WE ARE TO DO WI1H THE SEVEN HUNDRED KUWAIT JJ
9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
CII COWELL ADMIN P8U278
ACTION KRGFORRESTER
AOTION MRJHEARDER(PRB) FIB
MRMCOSTELLO(SEC) TT MRRSLAURIE(DS) TT MRLROWE bullbull CEXB) TT MRJBURSESSCPMD) TT MRKSKELLY(KAB) TT KIPVARGHESE(PAD) TT
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16 JAN 96 1045 FROM FAT 61 6 2613455 bull
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
Noo1= COVER PUlS EXGJi1
Too DSPl OF DBlBNCB A11BNTION SBRVJCBS PEIISONNEt POLICY - S02 PAT Ct NtKB
sr~ 0laquo FAX 2656206 -- ctk
JOHN RUTHERFORD ( PHONE (06) 261-2917 FAX (06) 261 3455
KUWAIT uBERAnoN MEDAL
PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARlMSNT 011 ADHINISTNJTIVB SERVICES (MUtRDS AND NAl1ONAL SYMBOLS) HAVE NOT 10 THE BBST OF HJ KNOWLBDGB YBI RBCBIVlm ADVICE OF THE PROPOSAL AS DiSCUSSED YOU MAY WISH 10 APPROACH THBM USING THE ATTACHBI) INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE
------------ ---_ _
16 JAN 96 1045 FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455 PAGE 004
Pl
J IWIhoIfvnI PlolDclol DFAT CIlIUmI
Fax 0061 e 281 34S5
In ~ to )OUr cable OCEM5218 rilpldlriO IN KIIweit LibIInItian MedId
AIIIId18CIleB cap) attIIe medIII ClDIIiIlCIIW lind 11I1on
Tho 1I1IICIIIIs not engrend hi 0IrIiIIcIIIM nat IMI1c8cf hn ie a p8cIIiIlt) put lhelWGlplanll
A Itt at IIWIIICIeU wee not pnMcIICI not wlllnl1IIIY dlltlllled ~ the ~ (trwIIIIfOn iiI1tIIdlId) limply aid to be h8ndad It) AuIItaIIan InICIpI WhO lOOk part In theWIt tit IIbII1ItIng of 1CampMIIIl
WellMl no I1ICIOIdI ar 1lIIY II 1II from any Aultralian AuIholIty for rned8lrt I _idhe Depallllent of Darlnae MCtiOllIp8dllclly COIIIIIIId with awlIrdIilt I11III1 be worth chIclkk1g wtthhem They would cemalnly have ntCIIIRIe of tme -v1Cemllll Vfho fDak pet In the __bull
IIWM CheIIkecI with fila BrIIIIh and US Embal_ In Ri)tIidh to Ind gut Ifthly twva had medal dellYwtIL M bOIl 0IUItrIes l8prlllntect In KLMitthly wcarId not wlIl_ to nIIlitIve tIlem In RIyadh The DdInce scuon Ollhe BItIIh EIQJ RI1I8IMIa Me NIt lhIri IIWIIICIIICI 1M medii about IwIt ~ The US 901 to check with their GII1bBIay In KUwaIt and wID OIl bIIck It) me
16 JAN 96 1il 4S FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455
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16 JAN 96 1B45 FROM IlFAT 61 6 2613455 TO 02656206
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MEDAL 011 LIBERATING KUWAIT
UJlUATlNGKUWAlTMDAL oamlCATE
ON THEBIIlIS OP lBE PROPOSAL OJ TSB MJNl5TEll or DUItMIE TO IMIR OFTSB STATE OJ KDWArI lIAS GIlANTpoundI)
QADI fRREI MEDALOr 1IBEPATlNGKUWArI IN AJIlIUCJAllON OPTBB NOBtamp WOlD[ TBAT CONTJUBU lED 10
IJMRATING KUWAlT
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FROM DFRT 51 5 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDER(PRB) ~ COpy NO 1
OUTWARD CABLEGRAM 0CE515Z16 APBO
0OE54521 1155 2808S UNC
TO RR RIVADHl6971
REF 0RV1927
U N Q LAS S l FIE D
~UNAlT LlBERATION HIDALS
FROH FILE 9210138$5 0
CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
cOpy BE FAXED ro PROrOCOL BRANCH - FAX Z613455) i c ~s mc z 10)HAVE ANY GOVERNHENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INVOLVED IN THE
zMATTER PRIOR TO THE PEL IVERY OF THE MEDALS lgt
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HAVE THE KUWAITIS PROVIDED ANY OTHER INFORMATIONINSTRUCTIONS Z iREGARDING rHe MEDALS 2 Jl
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WERE MEDALS PROVIDED TO OTHER EMBASSIES IN RIYADHKUWAIT 0 ~ WHOSE CITIZENS NERe INVOLVED IN THE CAMPAIGN 0
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2 IN ADDITION TO A FAX OF THE CERTIFICATE COULD YOU ALSO FAX A DRAWING OR REASONABLE PHDTOCOPV OF THE tlEDAL UNO RIBBON)
eM J RUTHERFORD Psp 2917 bull
DISTRIBUTION IS LIHITED ONLY TO
~CTION MRMCOSTELLO
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16 J~ 96 11347 FRQ1 llFAT 61 6 261J45S TO a26S62a6
ACTION RJe~RDER(PRB)
COpy NO 1
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TO RR CANBERRA
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KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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WHO TOOK PUT IN THE WAR LIBERATING kUWAIT I 1ft 2l
2 GRATEfUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDAWS SHOULD BE SENT AND 0WORDING OF ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO n nTHE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS 0 0
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
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14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
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3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 4
HEADQUARTERS AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICES PERSONNEL POLICY
RUSSELL OFFICES CANBERRA ACT 2600 FACSIMILE NUMBER (06) 2656206
TO Sue jorgensen ---shy FROM Mr Pat Clarke-rADDRESS DFAT -middotmiddot----middot-1-APPT Staff OffICer Grade 2 1
j tFAXNO261 2673
Ceremonial ___==FAX NO 265 6206 _
II
lIE=EJ~~O61 2640 _ -J TELlsect NO 265 ~~---__ -1 DATE OF THIS fAX 10 Jan 96 +--___ iINO OF PAGES (IN~ THIsectL~__L-_ _ ____ __J
Dear Sue
In reference to our telephone conversation yesterday regarding the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government ofKuwait enclosed is the article from the US Anny Times as discussed
It is interesting to note that the US have also been short changed by about 200000 medals I have spoken to the Defence Attache at the US Embassy about the medal and how the US intend to treat the shortfall ie will they accept it and issue the medals on a first in fist served basis or go hack to the Kuwait Government and request more I hope to have an answer tomorrow and win advise you accordingly From that I believe that we may be able to come up with a way ahead on our shortfall
I am stiD chasing up the full numbers expected for Australia and will also advise you when known This will take a little longer
Regards
Pat Clarke
-~-------~----~ ~~----------
bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull bullbullbullbull ~
ftIInIN_ber2719951~ $~i ~bull
Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
~ ~
~l
~
16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
GIS l6i5 l5l3 GlSl6i5Q06
~ Tehp--Namhn Fw esect bullbull Namber
Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
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16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
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INWARD CABLEGRAM O RY24U LOLA
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TO RR CANBERRA
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9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
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PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
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PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARlMSNT 011 ADHINISTNJTIVB SERVICES (MUtRDS AND NAl1ONAL SYMBOLS) HAVE NOT 10 THE BBST OF HJ KNOWLBDGB YBI RBCBIVlm ADVICE OF THE PROPOSAL AS DiSCUSSED YOU MAY WISH 10 APPROACH THBM USING THE ATTACHBI) INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE
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16 JAN 96 1045 FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455 PAGE 004
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U N Q LAS S l FIE D
~UNAlT LlBERATION HIDALS
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CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
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KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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WHO TOOK PUT IN THE WAR LIBERATING kUWAIT I 1ft 2l
2 GRATEfUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDAWS SHOULD BE SENT AND 0WORDING OF ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO n nTHE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS 0 0
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
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14 COPIES
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- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
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2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 4
HEADQUARTERS AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICES PERSONNEL POLICY
RUSSELL OFFICES CANBERRA ACT 2600 FACSIMILE NUMBER (06) 2656206
TO Sue jorgensen ---shy FROM Mr Pat Clarke-rADDRESS DFAT -middotmiddot----middot-1-APPT Staff OffICer Grade 2 1
j tFAXNO261 2673
Ceremonial ___==FAX NO 265 6206 _
II
lIE=EJ~~O61 2640 _ -J TELlsect NO 265 ~~---__ -1 DATE OF THIS fAX 10 Jan 96 +--___ iINO OF PAGES (IN~ THIsectL~__L-_ _ ____ __J
Dear Sue
In reference to our telephone conversation yesterday regarding the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government ofKuwait enclosed is the article from the US Anny Times as discussed
It is interesting to note that the US have also been short changed by about 200000 medals I have spoken to the Defence Attache at the US Embassy about the medal and how the US intend to treat the shortfall ie will they accept it and issue the medals on a first in fist served basis or go hack to the Kuwait Government and request more I hope to have an answer tomorrow and win advise you accordingly From that I believe that we may be able to come up with a way ahead on our shortfall
I am stiD chasing up the full numbers expected for Australia and will also advise you when known This will take a little longer
Regards
Pat Clarke
-~-------~----~ ~~----------
bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull bullbullbullbull ~
ftIInIN_ber2719951~ $~i ~bull
Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
~ ~
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16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
GIS l6i5 l5l3 GlSl6i5Q06
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Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
I
16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDERCPRB)cOpy HO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM O RY24U LOLA
TOR 1643 0801 ORY246~ 1312 070196 UNC
TO RR CANBERRA
FM RIYADH FA REF OCE545Z16
U N C LAS S I FIE D
~UMAIT LIBERATION KEDALS
to FILE 920013835 0
bull PLEASE COULD yoU PROVlDE AN UPDATE ON THE SITUATlOH WITH m gt RESPECT TO WHAT WE ARE TO DO WI1H THE SEVEN HUNDRED KUWAIT JJ
9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
CII COWELL ADMIN P8U278
ACTION KRGFORRESTER
AOTION MRJHEARDER(PRB) FIB
MRMCOSTELLO(SEC) TT MRRSLAURIE(DS) TT MRLROWE bullbull CEXB) TT MRJBURSESSCPMD) TT MRKSKELLY(KAB) TT KIPVARGHESE(PAD) TT
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16 JAN 96 1045 FROM FAT 61 6 2613455 bull
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
Noo1= COVER PUlS EXGJi1
Too DSPl OF DBlBNCB A11BNTION SBRVJCBS PEIISONNEt POLICY - S02 PAT Ct NtKB
sr~ 0laquo FAX 2656206 -- ctk
JOHN RUTHERFORD ( PHONE (06) 261-2917 FAX (06) 261 3455
KUWAIT uBERAnoN MEDAL
PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARlMSNT 011 ADHINISTNJTIVB SERVICES (MUtRDS AND NAl1ONAL SYMBOLS) HAVE NOT 10 THE BBST OF HJ KNOWLBDGB YBI RBCBIVlm ADVICE OF THE PROPOSAL AS DiSCUSSED YOU MAY WISH 10 APPROACH THBM USING THE ATTACHBI) INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE
------------ ---_ _
16 JAN 96 1045 FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455 PAGE 004
Pl
J IWIhoIfvnI PlolDclol DFAT CIlIUmI
Fax 0061 e 281 34S5
In ~ to )OUr cable OCEM5218 rilpldlriO IN KIIweit LibIInItian MedId
AIIIId18CIleB cap) attIIe medIII ClDIIiIlCIIW lind 11I1on
Tho 1I1IICIIIIs not engrend hi 0IrIiIIcIIIM nat IMI1c8cf hn ie a p8cIIiIlt) put lhelWGlplanll
A Itt at IIWIIICIeU wee not pnMcIICI not wlllnl1IIIY dlltlllled ~ the ~ (trwIIIIfOn iiI1tIIdlId) limply aid to be h8ndad It) AuIItaIIan InICIpI WhO lOOk part In theWIt tit IIbII1ItIng of 1CampMIIIl
WellMl no I1ICIOIdI ar 1lIIY II 1II from any Aultralian AuIholIty for rned8lrt I _idhe Depallllent of Darlnae MCtiOllIp8dllclly COIIIIIIId with awlIrdIilt I11III1 be worth chIclkk1g wtthhem They would cemalnly have ntCIIIRIe of tme -v1Cemllll Vfho fDak pet In the __bull
IIWM CheIIkecI with fila BrIIIIh and US Embal_ In Ri)tIidh to Ind gut Ifthly twva had medal dellYwtIL M bOIl 0IUItrIes l8prlllntect In KLMitthly wcarId not wlIl_ to nIIlitIve tIlem In RIyadh The DdInce scuon Ollhe BItIIh EIQJ RI1I8IMIa Me NIt lhIri IIWIIICIIICI 1M medii about IwIt ~ The US 901 to check with their GII1bBIay In KUwaIt and wID OIl bIIck It) me
16 JAN 96 1il 4S FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455
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16 JAN 96 1B45 FROM IlFAT 61 6 2613455 TO 02656206
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MEDAL 011 LIBERATING KUWAIT
UJlUATlNGKUWAlTMDAL oamlCATE
ON THEBIIlIS OP lBE PROPOSAL OJ TSB MJNl5TEll or DUItMIE TO IMIR OFTSB STATE OJ KDWArI lIAS GIlANTpoundI)
QADI fRREI MEDALOr 1IBEPATlNGKUWArI IN AJIlIUCJAllON OPTBB NOBtamp WOlD[ TBAT CONTJUBU lED 10
IJMRATING KUWAlT
DATI
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FROM DFRT 51 5 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDER(PRB) ~ COpy NO 1
OUTWARD CABLEGRAM 0CE515Z16 APBO
0OE54521 1155 2808S UNC
TO RR RIVADHl6971
REF 0RV1927
U N Q LAS S l FIE D
~UNAlT LlBERATION HIDALS
FROH FILE 9210138$5 0
CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
cOpy BE FAXED ro PROrOCOL BRANCH - FAX Z613455) i c ~s mc z 10)HAVE ANY GOVERNHENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INVOLVED IN THE
zMATTER PRIOR TO THE PEL IVERY OF THE MEDALS lgt
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HAVE THE KUWAITIS PROVIDED ANY OTHER INFORMATIONINSTRUCTIONS Z iREGARDING rHe MEDALS 2 Jl
l m en
WERE MEDALS PROVIDED TO OTHER EMBASSIES IN RIYADHKUWAIT 0 ~ WHOSE CITIZENS NERe INVOLVED IN THE CAMPAIGN 0
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2 IN ADDITION TO A FAX OF THE CERTIFICATE COULD YOU ALSO FAX A DRAWING OR REASONABLE PHDTOCOPV OF THE tlEDAL UNO RIBBON)
eM J RUTHERFORD Psp 2917 bull
DISTRIBUTION IS LIHITED ONLY TO
~CTION MRMCOSTELLO
ACTION tlRJHEARDERtPRI) FBB
MRHCOSTELLO(SEC) TlT MRJMCCARTHY(DlS) TT MSSTAHHER(EXB) 11T MRRLAURIE(PMD) MRJDOLLIMORE(MAB) MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
0 m
------~- --------------- shy
16 J~ 96 11347 FRQ1 llFAT 61 6 261J45S TO a26S62a6
ACTION RJe~RDER(PRB)
COpy NO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM 0ItYU27 NDAl
TOR 2217 2D08950RY192r 1553 200895 UNe
TO RR CANBERRA
FM UYADH FA
U H C L A $ S I f liD
KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
s ~
WHO TOOK PUT IN THE WAR LIBERATING kUWAIT I 1ft 2l
2 GRATEfUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDAWS SHOULD BE SENT AND 0WORDING OF ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO n nTHE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS 0 0
0
CM COWELL ADMIN PBAOOU8 I 1fti i5 g 2
raquoDISTRIBUTION IS LIMITED ONLY TO t (5
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ACTION MRMCOSTELLO 5iii raquo
Z0 0 C ACT IOH MRJHEARDER(PRB) FBB Il
lgt 0MRHCOSTEllO(SEC) TT HRJMCCAATHY(DS) TT ITgt
MSSTAHNER(EXB) TT MRRLAURIE(PMO)HRJOOllIKORE(MAB) KRPVARGHESE(PAO)
TOTAL PAGEBla bullbull
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1-
Enclosure
- ---shy
~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
shy
~ shy
igt Article from US Amy r6ember 271995 ~~ -l__
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
b
UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
MINUTE
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
------
2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
CDF VCDF eM
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Defence Penlonnel executive
MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
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Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
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lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
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a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
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I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
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bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
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RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
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IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
__
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 4
HEADQUARTERS AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICES PERSONNEL POLICY
RUSSELL OFFICES CANBERRA ACT 2600 FACSIMILE NUMBER (06) 2656206
TO Sue jorgensen ---shy FROM Mr Pat Clarke-rADDRESS DFAT -middotmiddot----middot-1-APPT Staff OffICer Grade 2 1
j tFAXNO261 2673
Ceremonial ___==FAX NO 265 6206 _
II
lIE=EJ~~O61 2640 _ -J TELlsect NO 265 ~~---__ -1 DATE OF THIS fAX 10 Jan 96 +--___ iINO OF PAGES (IN~ THIsectL~__L-_ _ ____ __J
Dear Sue
In reference to our telephone conversation yesterday regarding the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government ofKuwait enclosed is the article from the US Anny Times as discussed
It is interesting to note that the US have also been short changed by about 200000 medals I have spoken to the Defence Attache at the US Embassy about the medal and how the US intend to treat the shortfall ie will they accept it and issue the medals on a first in fist served basis or go hack to the Kuwait Government and request more I hope to have an answer tomorrow and win advise you accordingly From that I believe that we may be able to come up with a way ahead on our shortfall
I am stiD chasing up the full numbers expected for Australia and will also advise you when known This will take a little longer
Regards
Pat Clarke
-~-------~----~ ~~----------
bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull bullbullbullbull ~
ftIInIN_ber2719951~ $~i ~bull
Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
~ ~
~l
~
16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
GIS l6i5 l5l3 GlSl6i5Q06
~ Tehp--Namhn Fw esect bullbull Namber
Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
I
16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDERCPRB)cOpy HO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM O RY24U LOLA
TOR 1643 0801 ORY246~ 1312 070196 UNC
TO RR CANBERRA
FM RIYADH FA REF OCE545Z16
U N C LAS S I FIE D
~UMAIT LIBERATION KEDALS
to FILE 920013835 0
bull PLEASE COULD yoU PROVlDE AN UPDATE ON THE SITUATlOH WITH m gt RESPECT TO WHAT WE ARE TO DO WI1H THE SEVEN HUNDRED KUWAIT JJ
9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
CII COWELL ADMIN P8U278
ACTION KRGFORRESTER
AOTION MRJHEARDER(PRB) FIB
MRMCOSTELLO(SEC) TT MRRSLAURIE(DS) TT MRLROWE bullbull CEXB) TT MRJBURSESSCPMD) TT MRKSKELLY(KAB) TT KIPVARGHESE(PAD) TT
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16 JAN 96 1045 FROM FAT 61 6 2613455 bull
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
Noo1= COVER PUlS EXGJi1
Too DSPl OF DBlBNCB A11BNTION SBRVJCBS PEIISONNEt POLICY - S02 PAT Ct NtKB
sr~ 0laquo FAX 2656206 -- ctk
JOHN RUTHERFORD ( PHONE (06) 261-2917 FAX (06) 261 3455
KUWAIT uBERAnoN MEDAL
PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARlMSNT 011 ADHINISTNJTIVB SERVICES (MUtRDS AND NAl1ONAL SYMBOLS) HAVE NOT 10 THE BBST OF HJ KNOWLBDGB YBI RBCBIVlm ADVICE OF THE PROPOSAL AS DiSCUSSED YOU MAY WISH 10 APPROACH THBM USING THE ATTACHBI) INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE
------------ ---_ _
16 JAN 96 1045 FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455 PAGE 004
Pl
J IWIhoIfvnI PlolDclol DFAT CIlIUmI
Fax 0061 e 281 34S5
In ~ to )OUr cable OCEM5218 rilpldlriO IN KIIweit LibIInItian MedId
AIIIId18CIleB cap) attIIe medIII ClDIIiIlCIIW lind 11I1on
Tho 1I1IICIIIIs not engrend hi 0IrIiIIcIIIM nat IMI1c8cf hn ie a p8cIIiIlt) put lhelWGlplanll
A Itt at IIWIIICIeU wee not pnMcIICI not wlllnl1IIIY dlltlllled ~ the ~ (trwIIIIfOn iiI1tIIdlId) limply aid to be h8ndad It) AuIItaIIan InICIpI WhO lOOk part In theWIt tit IIbII1ItIng of 1CampMIIIl
WellMl no I1ICIOIdI ar 1lIIY II 1II from any Aultralian AuIholIty for rned8lrt I _idhe Depallllent of Darlnae MCtiOllIp8dllclly COIIIIIIId with awlIrdIilt I11III1 be worth chIclkk1g wtthhem They would cemalnly have ntCIIIRIe of tme -v1Cemllll Vfho fDak pet In the __bull
IIWM CheIIkecI with fila BrIIIIh and US Embal_ In Ri)tIidh to Ind gut Ifthly twva had medal dellYwtIL M bOIl 0IUItrIes l8prlllntect In KLMitthly wcarId not wlIl_ to nIIlitIve tIlem In RIyadh The DdInce scuon Ollhe BItIIh EIQJ RI1I8IMIa Me NIt lhIri IIWIIICIIICI 1M medii about IwIt ~ The US 901 to check with their GII1bBIay In KUwaIt and wID OIl bIIck It) me
16 JAN 96 1il 4S FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455
imiddot
I
0 20 ~ 1
IInIIn I Oft 01IIc0 Ia Riyadh Em JJ ofdla 81l111uafKnJit
To BmNIlyof~
w bull t to)OlJ1Ino boUI wIIIIb OQIIMIn IIIIIIII ollillcnlllulKDwIit nac ere 100 modal ill dlD1htee boXIII witb till lii1ifL a ill OIdcrw baD41Mm to die AuI 1tOopI wIIa fDcIk pet inwar ofJil lna KIlIINIt
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16 JAN 96 1B45 FROM IlFAT 61 6 2613455 TO 02656206
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16 r~ 96 1946 FR()1 DFAT 61 6 261J45S TO B2656206
~ l
TO~16 lRl bull 96 1047 FR(l1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 P5 IUO 29~ eB47A1
ftArBOFlUlWAlJ
MEDAL 011 LIBERATING KUWAIT
UJlUATlNGKUWAlTMDAL oamlCATE
ON THEBIIlIS OP lBE PROPOSAL OJ TSB MJNl5TEll or DUItMIE TO IMIR OFTSB STATE OJ KDWArI lIAS GIlANTpoundI)
QADI fRREI MEDALOr 1IBEPATlNGKUWArI IN AJIlIUCJAllON OPTBB NOBtamp WOlD[ TBAT CONTJUBU lED 10
IJMRATING KUWAlT
DATI
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FROM DFRT 51 5 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDER(PRB) ~ COpy NO 1
OUTWARD CABLEGRAM 0CE515Z16 APBO
0OE54521 1155 2808S UNC
TO RR RIVADHl6971
REF 0RV1927
U N Q LAS S l FIE D
~UNAlT LlBERATION HIDALS
FROH FILE 9210138$5 0
CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
cOpy BE FAXED ro PROrOCOL BRANCH - FAX Z613455) i c ~s mc z 10)HAVE ANY GOVERNHENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INVOLVED IN THE
zMATTER PRIOR TO THE PEL IVERY OF THE MEDALS lgt
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HAVE THE KUWAITIS PROVIDED ANY OTHER INFORMATIONINSTRUCTIONS Z iREGARDING rHe MEDALS 2 Jl
l m en
WERE MEDALS PROVIDED TO OTHER EMBASSIES IN RIYADHKUWAIT 0 ~ WHOSE CITIZENS NERe INVOLVED IN THE CAMPAIGN 0
-I II lgt
2 IN ADDITION TO A FAX OF THE CERTIFICATE COULD YOU ALSO FAX A DRAWING OR REASONABLE PHDTOCOPV OF THE tlEDAL UNO RIBBON)
eM J RUTHERFORD Psp 2917 bull
DISTRIBUTION IS LIHITED ONLY TO
~CTION MRMCOSTELLO
ACTION tlRJHEARDERtPRI) FBB
MRHCOSTELLO(SEC) TlT MRJMCCARTHY(DlS) TT MSSTAHHER(EXB) 11T MRRLAURIE(PMD) MRJDOLLIMORE(MAB) MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
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------~- --------------- shy
16 J~ 96 11347 FRQ1 llFAT 61 6 261J45S TO a26S62a6
ACTION RJe~RDER(PRB)
COpy NO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM 0ItYU27 NDAl
TOR 2217 2D08950RY192r 1553 200895 UNe
TO RR CANBERRA
FM UYADH FA
U H C L A $ S I f liD
KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
s ~
WHO TOOK PUT IN THE WAR LIBERATING kUWAIT I 1ft 2l
2 GRATEfUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDAWS SHOULD BE SENT AND 0WORDING OF ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO n nTHE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS 0 0
0
CM COWELL ADMIN PBAOOU8 I 1fti i5 g 2
raquoDISTRIBUTION IS LIMITED ONLY TO t (5
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ACTION MRMCOSTELLO 5iii raquo
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lgt 0MRHCOSTEllO(SEC) TT HRJMCCAATHY(DS) TT ITgt
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TOTAL PAGEBla bullbull
I
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1-
Enclosure
- ---shy
~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
shy
~ shy
igt Article from US Amy r6ember 271995 ~~ -l__
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
MINUTE
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
bullbullbullbullbullbullbullbullbull bullbullbullbull ~
ftIInIN_ber2719951~ $~i ~bull
Are you aGulf War vet Heres another meda 1 shy~imTke --
IllllLUDRIA Va - The S27ooo ooIdi whopertlcishyJlIIIaI ill tho P 1luIC War qualIry for _ deonramiddot amplOll The Kuwait Liberation Medal(lobullbullmrnent r K1naIt ~ or IleIen WiWmI Peny rmenIIy Pted an oIIIr by Kuwait IIgt award tho IIIIOIIaI to UA __ ~ 110 porIicipalod in oparoIiaM DIaerI Sh1eId and De _ scnn Another madlI with -Y the __ ill
awarde4 by SoIi ArabIa CaIlad tho Kuwai~ Iibonotion utaI 7 IIlnjdom olSaudi AnIbla it haoI 811thorized
middot1lJr ~b1 qualiliaI Gulf War iii JIIIlUllJY 1992
ArNs thai qlllllify SoIdiengt and former ooldiera qualUY ror tho _ medal if ~ were IIlIIIicnad to one or _0tBI dosIgnaled in SoulJI_ Asia beIwoen Auamp 21990 II1I1I A 31 1993
The deoignated th Anhian Gulf the Rat Sea the Gulr or Oman thot portion of the Arabian Sua that lim IlOriJI of 10 ~ north lalitude d west ol68 de-I east longitude the Gulf ol Aden or tho Ioal land or Iraq K_I Saudi Arabia Om Bahrain Qatar and the UnilBd Anh Emira1e9
The award criteria - IIInounced Nov 9 by the ToW Army Pne1 Commlllld in MilP 101_ No 9SOl7 (I)lG 0912412 Nov 95) A soldier or former ODIiIi must meet one of tho loIlowiog rondltiona to quallfy
New medal for GuN service MEDAL Ira plaquoeadlnc _ nel Command will w the lime wnmt for TOY wldi who partieipaled In octual bat operations Hwev Lb e1igibiUty period (Aug 2 t99G-AUS 31 1993) II1I1I deoignaled ~ - stipulated by the gmremment rKu_ and may hOI be walved log 10 henmnel ~
Immedlate authorized CoM11llUldoro aulhorized to im-diatoly a the
new medal to quoIifJOd aodiem Permanent orden are not required ~ to the MIIiIary Arna Brandgt
LocaIperoonnel eIf_ ould db PEIISCOMa Nov 9 m~ in electron updatea to the 011 MaoIer FIle and when annotating 0I1br Iuord Briofallll1l OA FontIII 2-1
F ooIdi who l1eIiew they qualify for the medal should send a leIIer II1I1I 1lIIY ppotting documents Ill the Army Rne PeraonneI Cenler AlIre OAllPmiddotPIISshyEAW 9700 Pego Blvd St Louis Mo 6ilIU200
The medal mlY be awarded poIIInmrouIIlY to the nextcC-kin of mdier who ___ killed in opet1lllooa Deshysert Shielclllll1l Storm u of heir Jensth ol-lce during the dttIignated period IIAoqueoIa for pgtIIIhumoua awards ohmld be _t ToW Army ne1 Comshymllll1l Allin TAPC-PIlA 200 SIoYaII St AIdria Va 223320471
Aboul 500000 medal _ haw bean pnMded to the US n by Kuwait me 200000 short of what lualIy may be required if all eligible BOIdien oaiIon airmen and Marinos 110 award Army unilll ohould requisition setIJ rrom the Army Support ActivitylIIiIadepIUa
Ollicial _ thel the ribbon provided by Kuwait doeo iii the Us ribbon bar SoIdien who t IIgt wear the n ban wiII have to purcbase at their OWII a us of the deomItion from the Army and Air F ampchange Servite (AAFFS)
Beteu or the Od1 hutdo AAIES haMmiddot quart in DaIl hod not Yed implementing guId anoo from the PenUyenm OIIuiaI cwId hOI prooide price data on the US wnion or the ribbon or illl pIIljated avallahility dale in pool angeo
In order or ~ and diapllY on tho uniform tho mw orudal followa the Kuwait Iberetion Medal awarded by Saudi Ambia acxxmIing 10 MIi PeIsr Dng-neo dIief ol the MlUtary Awards Bntneh
Crilmia ror tho Saudi medal _tially areIhe aamo as new medaI Pt thai the 11_ ~~ ror the Sushyeli medal- Jan 17 19911hfOllllh FebIll 1991- is conmiddot ed-by more nobidi
VlrtuaIly all 1diem who quaIiraquo for tho Sudi modal qualify for the _ Kuwait medal
W atlothed to or regu111llY ad f day or more with 811 organiWion portid in ground andor shore operaliol1llW aIIachad to or regularly Ibr OM day or more with a naval bull t directly oupporling military operation
bull Participated a _Ilerin one or _ aerial fIichts thet direetly pported miUIIIry operaIi_ in the deoignated __
bull Boned Iesnpgtraty duty (TOY) ror 30 Ii days or 60 _ 11 day durilll tho dignalltd psriltd
The Military Awards Bntneh of tho TotaIArmy petllOJlmiddot MpoundOAI _
Tallen fI thanks The Kuwait Uberation MedalGovemshyment of Kuwait COIId go 0 some 700000 eligible war veIer8ns
~ ~
~l
~
16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
GIS l6i5 l5l3 GlSl6i5Q06
~ Tehp--Namhn Fw esect bullbull Namber
Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
I
16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDERCPRB)cOpy HO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM O RY24U LOLA
TOR 1643 0801 ORY246~ 1312 070196 UNC
TO RR CANBERRA
FM RIYADH FA REF OCE545Z16
U N C LAS S I FIE D
~UMAIT LIBERATION KEDALS
to FILE 920013835 0
bull PLEASE COULD yoU PROVlDE AN UPDATE ON THE SITUATlOH WITH m gt RESPECT TO WHAT WE ARE TO DO WI1H THE SEVEN HUNDRED KUWAIT JJ
9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
CII COWELL ADMIN P8U278
ACTION KRGFORRESTER
AOTION MRJHEARDER(PRB) FIB
MRMCOSTELLO(SEC) TT MRRSLAURIE(DS) TT MRLROWE bullbull CEXB) TT MRJBURSESSCPMD) TT MRKSKELLY(KAB) TT KIPVARGHESE(PAD) TT
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JJlit mlt Z i5
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16 JAN 96 1045 FROM FAT 61 6 2613455 bull
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
Noo1= COVER PUlS EXGJi1
Too DSPl OF DBlBNCB A11BNTION SBRVJCBS PEIISONNEt POLICY - S02 PAT Ct NtKB
sr~ 0laquo FAX 2656206 -- ctk
JOHN RUTHERFORD ( PHONE (06) 261-2917 FAX (06) 261 3455
KUWAIT uBERAnoN MEDAL
PJFSB PXND ATTACHED A NUMBER OF PAPERS DBALJNO WITH 700 MEDAtS PROVXElBIl BY THE XUWAITI AUTHORJTJBS FOR AUSTRALIAN SERVICEMEN INVOLVIID JN THE LIBBATION OF THAT COUNTRY
AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARlMSNT 011 ADHINISTNJTIVB SERVICES (MUtRDS AND NAl1ONAL SYMBOLS) HAVE NOT 10 THE BBST OF HJ KNOWLBDGB YBI RBCBIVlm ADVICE OF THE PROPOSAL AS DiSCUSSED YOU MAY WISH 10 APPROACH THBM USING THE ATTACHBI) INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE
------------ ---_ _
16 JAN 96 1045 FROM DFAT 61 6 2613455 PAGE 004
Pl
J IWIhoIfvnI PlolDclol DFAT CIlIUmI
Fax 0061 e 281 34S5
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KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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2 GRATEfUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDAWS SHOULD BE SENT AND 0WORDING OF ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO n nTHE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS 0 0
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
16 JR bull96 11i144 FRCI1 DFAT 61 6 2613455 TOIiI265621i16 PRlE1iIIiI1
IFOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 5
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE iii ~Acr_
Facsimile Message To T~NIambe- FwePnQe NIIIDIMn
Mr Pat Clarke BO ADF Senkes PenIOImeI PolIcy Kg
Clmbeal IUOtIIces
GIS l6i5 l5l3 GlSl6i5Q06
~ Tehp--Namhn Fw esect bullbull Namber
Peter McNamara PADilRB
161ll17 2613455
SUBJECT Kuwalt lJbelaUOD Medals
PaI
As discussed followinamp please find copies ofcables and a fax from the AllsbaliID Embassy lUyadh describina the ~- As you can see this medal appean to be different to the one doscnbcd in your fax to Sue Jorgensen on 10JanWlI) 1996
I would be gmefu1 if you could advise 11$ on the action you iDteDd to tab coooeming the roedals
I
16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDERCPRB)cOpy HO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM O RY24U LOLA
TOR 1643 0801 ORY246~ 1312 070196 UNC
TO RR CANBERRA
FM RIYADH FA REF OCE545Z16
U N C LAS S I FIE D
~UMAIT LIBERATION KEDALS
to FILE 920013835 0
bull PLEASE COULD yoU PROVlDE AN UPDATE ON THE SITUATlOH WITH m gt RESPECT TO WHAT WE ARE TO DO WI1H THE SEVEN HUNDRED KUWAIT JJ
9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
CII COWELL ADMIN P8U278
ACTION KRGFORRESTER
AOTION MRJHEARDER(PRB) FIB
MRMCOSTELLO(SEC) TT MRRSLAURIE(DS) TT MRLROWE bullbull CEXB) TT MRJBURSESSCPMD) TT MRKSKELLY(KAB) TT KIPVARGHESE(PAD) TT
im
lI Z0
Igt --I 0 (I
sect 0
JJlit mlt Z i5
z ~ )gt
i
z D 1ft eni lgt 0 Z
16 JAN 96 1045 FROM FAT 61 6 2613455 bull
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
Noo1= COVER PUlS EXGJi1
Too DSPl OF DBlBNCB A11BNTION SBRVJCBS PEIISONNEt POLICY - S02 PAT Ct NtKB
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CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
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KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
16 JAN 96 1044 FRa1DFAT 61 6 2613455
ACTION KRJHEARDERCPRB)cOpy HO 1
INWARD CABLEGRAM O RY24U LOLA
TOR 1643 0801 ORY246~ 1312 070196 UNC
TO RR CANBERRA
FM RIYADH FA REF OCE545Z16
U N C LAS S I FIE D
~UMAIT LIBERATION KEDALS
to FILE 920013835 0
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9 --ILIBERATION MEDALS CURRENTLY BEING HELD AT THE AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY RIYADH
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AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
THE DBPARlMSNT 011 ADHINISTNJTIVB SERVICES (MUtRDS AND NAl1ONAL SYMBOLS) HAVE NOT 10 THE BBST OF HJ KNOWLBDGB YBI RBCBIVlm ADVICE OF THE PROPOSAL AS DiSCUSSED YOU MAY WISH 10 APPROACH THBM USING THE ATTACHBI) INFORMATION AS YOU CONSIDER APPROPRIATE
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~UNAlT LlBERATION HIDALS
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CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
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KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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2 GRATEfUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDAWS SHOULD BE SENT AND 0WORDING OF ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO n nTHE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS 0 0
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
16 JAN 96 1045 FROM FAT 61 6 2613455 bull
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE CANBERRA
PROTOCOL BRANCH FACSIMILE MESSAGE
OATS 29 August 1995 FJLB
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KUWAIT uBERAnoN MEDAL
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AS IT WOULD APPEAR THAT YOUR DEPARTMENl WILL BE CEmRAL 10 TIlE GOVBiUIMENl S ATTITUDE 10 THE PROPOSBD AWARD OF TH8 MEDAL TO ElBlENCE PERSONNEL Il WOULD BB APIRECIATBIl 11 YOU COULD BXAMJNE THE PAPBIIS AND ADVISE IN DUE COURSB ANY PROPOSED ACTION
IF YOU REQl1UU1 FURlHBR iNFORMATION FROM RIYADH CONCERNiNG THE MEDALS PLEASE TBtBPHONB YOUR REQUEST
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CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
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KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
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2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
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14 COPIES
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- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
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Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
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14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
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2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
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3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
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a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
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CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
cOpy BE FAXED ro PROrOCOL BRANCH - FAX Z613455) i c ~s mc z 10)HAVE ANY GOVERNHENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INVOLVED IN THE
zMATTER PRIOR TO THE PEL IVERY OF THE MEDALS lgt
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eM J RUTHERFORD Psp 2917 bull
DISTRIBUTION IS LIHITED ONLY TO
~CTION MRMCOSTELLO
ACTION tlRJHEARDERtPRI) FBB
MRHCOSTELLO(SEC) TlT MRJMCCARTHY(DlS) TT MSSTAHHER(EXB) 11T MRRLAURIE(PMD) MRJDOLLIMORE(MAB) MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
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------~- --------------- shy
16 J~ 96 11347 FRQ1 llFAT 61 6 261J45S TO a26S62a6
ACTION RJe~RDER(PRB)
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INWARD CABLEGRAM 0ItYU27 NDAl
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TO RR CANBERRA
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KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
s ~
WHO TOOK PUT IN THE WAR LIBERATING kUWAIT I 1ft 2l
2 GRATEfUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDAWS SHOULD BE SENT AND 0WORDING OF ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO n nTHE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS 0 0
0
CM COWELL ADMIN PBAOOU8 I 1fti i5 g 2
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Enclosure
- ---shy
~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
shy
~ shy
igt Article from US Amy r6ember 271995 ~~ -l__
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
MINUTE
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
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CpULD YOU PLEASE ADVISE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS IN RESARD TO THE SEVEN m
HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
cOpy BE FAXED ro PROrOCOL BRANCH - FAX Z613455) i c ~s mc z 10)HAVE ANY GOVERNHENT BODIES IN AUSTRALIA BEEN INVOLVED IN THE
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DISTRIBUTION IS LIHITED ONLY TO
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ACTION tlRJHEARDERtPRI) FBB
MRHCOSTELLO(SEC) TlT MRJMCCARTHY(DlS) TT MSSTAHHER(EXB) 11T MRRLAURIE(PMD) MRJDOLLIMORE(MAB) MRPVARGHESE(PAD)
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ACTION RJe~RDER(PRB)
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INWARD CABLEGRAM 0ItYU27 NDAl
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KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
FOR PROTOCOL SECTION AND MAR SECTION 7
bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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WHO TOOK PUT IN THE WAR LIBERATING kUWAIT I 1ft 2l
2 GRATEfUL YOUR ADVICE WHERE THE MEDAWS SHOULD BE SENT AND 0WORDING OF ANY FORMAL CORRESPONDANCE WHICH SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO n nTHE KUWAIT EMBASSY ACCEPTING THE MEDALS 0 0
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Enclosure
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
shy
~ shy
igt Article from US Amy r6ember 271995 ~~ -l__
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
b
UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
MINUTE
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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Defence Penlonnel executive
MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
Th~r 1 o~~1 vc 9~ -1T~
1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
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3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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bull
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
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bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
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igt Article from US Amy r6ember 271995 ~~ -l__
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
MINUTE
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
------
2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
CDF VCDF eM
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Defence Penlonnel executive
MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
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3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
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5 lt
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bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
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IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
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HUNDRED MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES DELIVERED TO THE EHBASSY ~ ~ -I U iiiARE THE MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS m6 l Z 1gt -IWAS A LIST of RECIPIENTS PROVIDED Cn WHAT INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON THE CERTIFICATES (COULD A
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~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
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igt Article from US Amy r6ember 271995 ~~ -l__
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
------
2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
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- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
16 J~ 96 11347 FRQ1 llFAT 61 6 261J45S TO a26S62a6
ACTION RJe~RDER(PRB)
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KUWAIT LIBERATIOH MEDALS
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bull THE KUWAIT EMBASSY IN RIVADH DELIVERED TODAY TO THE AUSTRALIAN 1ft
EMBASSY IN RIYADH SEVE HUNPRED KUWAIT LlBERATION MEDALS AND -CERTIFICATES WHICH THEY ASk TO BE PRESENTED TO ~USTRALIAN TROOPS 0
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UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
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UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
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14 COPIES
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- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
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a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
I
f 1
1-
Enclosure
- ---shy
~~~Il FOI 691415 )i Item 1 Serial 6 lt
shy
~ shy
igt Article from US Amy r6ember 271995 ~~ -l__
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
b
UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
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- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 7
UNCLAS ROtIIINE
II 30061312 MAY 97 zoe PM DEPNAV CANllBRRA TO AIG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 BT ONCLAS SIC WAK 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUBJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MIDAL 1 SIlMMARY THIS MlilSSlIGB ADVISES OF AN A1DRD INSTITUTED BY TIm GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT roR SERVICE DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF TIm SERVICE PROVIDED BY TIm COALITION roRCBB DURING TIm GULF CONFLICT TIm OOVBRNMBNT OF KlJIIAIT HAS STRUCK A MBMSIITO MIDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SERVED IN TIm PRESCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF asIliBEN 17JAN91 AND 28FBB91
3 TIm ADF POLICY RiGARDING TIm MIlMIINTO IS lIB FOLLOWS (11 TIm MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MBMBERS OF TIm ADF WHO IIBlIamp SUVING PAGE 2 RAYliAD 1503 ONCLAS IN TIm PlliCRIlilBD OPERATIONAL AREA OF TIm PERSIAN GULF BBlWBBN 17JAN91 AND 28FB891 (II) THE MIDAL WILL BE ISSUED lIB A SOUVBIII (III) TIm MIDAL IS NOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD ONDER THE AUSTRALIAN HONOURS SYSTIM AND lIB SUCH IS NOT TO as WORN IN UNIFORM 4 TIm MEDAL WILL NOT BB IIIGRAVED 1IOWBVBIl THBRS IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MBMBBIi BAVING THE SOUVBIIR BIGlAVED AT TlmIII OWN ESPBllSB 5 TIm AUSTRALIAN OOVBRNMBNT HAS NO CONTROL III THE MlUtB Oil TIm DBSIGN OF THIS MSMIITO AND THBRS WILL as NO RBPLACIMENT OF LOST MEDALS BY TIm ADF 6 TIm MIDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSB 7 TIm CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCElUIING THIS MATTU IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
COMMCBI REllRIlIICB WCA594 DB RAYliAD 1503 1500930
ROADF IBPBRBICB Received No 03203 Oserid c INN Month = MAY Year 97
HCADF DISTRIBUTION
ACTION~PL ~ ~ INFO AIlMINS ~ COD~ OCBBIl DGP PP PEIHQADI BAC IW lB SO (A) COl SOACFCO SOACOPSCP~OA~ BOAS SOOPVCDF BOVCOF
b
UNCLAS
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
MINUTE
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
------
2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
CDF VCDF eM
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MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
Th~r 1 o~~1 vc 9~ -1T~
1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
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FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
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A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
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lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 8
BRIEF ON KUWAIT LmERATION MEDALS
Purpose
1 To provide a summary ofissues relating to the two Kuwait Liberation Medals
Backgrouud
2 Advice was received in May 91 that the Saudi Government had approved award ofthe Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in OPERATION DESERT STORM Details were subsequently confumed in a cablegram from DFAT Riyadh in Jan 92
3 In a minute to DA RIYADH dated 24 Jan 92 HQADF advised that the medal would be issued as a souvenir to the 1200 ADF persoonel who qualified for the award and would not be worn on uniform The Liberation of Kuwait MedaI- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments ofthe Coalition forces as a memento
4 In Aug 95 advice was received that Kuwaiti authorities had issued the Kuwait Liberatiou Medal - Government of Kuwait for the 700 ADF personnel involved in the liberation ofthat country There is no evidence that nonnal protocols were followed and that approval was sought for acceptsnce ofthe award through Australian Government channels This award was issued as a memento not to be worn on ADF uniform
Prepared By SOHDI
26 May 98
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
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References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
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2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
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- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
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3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
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01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
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80798 KUW-MEM
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
-f( ~ Austr~rn Defence Headquarters
MINUTE
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if15PHII LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
References
A DEFNAVCANBERRA WAK300613ZMAY97(Attached) B Navy Office letter N9714372 of5 Jun 97 (Attached) C Commonwealth Gazette No S548 of 22 December 1997
1 ADF personnel who served in the Persian Gulf during 1991 war against Iraq (17 January 1991 - 28 February 1991) were awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal by the Government of Kuwait Recipients were advised vide Reference A that these medals were awarded as souVenirs and as they were not an award nnder the Australian Honours System they could not be worn in uniform
2 The Guidelines Concerning The Acceptance And Wearing OfForeign Honours And Awards By Australians published in the Commonwealth Gazette of22 December 1997 (Reference C) provides for the wearing of such awards subject to in the case of ADF members advice from the Chief of Defence Force (or his delegate) and the permission of the Govemor General
3 ~onsideration is requested to permit recipients to wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal on the following grounds
a The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was issued to ADF personnel who served during the 1991 war against Iraq by the Kuwait Government and therefore meets the requirements ofReference C
b ADF participation in the war was in support ofUnited Nations Security Council Resolutions In UN peacekeeping operations a UN medal would normally have been struck Further in the instance ofUN operations in Somalia ADF personnel received the AASM ASM and UNSOM medal
c The Liberation ofKuwait Medal is worn by a number ofallied countries such as the US and France (these countries also allow the wearing of the Medal issued by the Government ofSaudi Arabia)
~------------
------
2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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Defence Penlonnel executive
MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
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4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
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Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
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lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
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SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
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a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
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I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
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confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
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RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
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IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
------
2
d A number of personnel who served in Vietnam were awarded and have approval to wear the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal This service has also been recognised with the recent award of the Australian Active Service Medal (AASM) 1945 - 1975 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal would appear to fit similar criteria
e The medals have already been issued and cost to the Government ofAustralia is therefore minimal and
f At least one senior ADP Officer has been given approval to wear his award from the Government of Saudi Arabia
PERRY DRRAN
0(0) COP
P-3-CDP Suite Tel 52847
3 Apr 98
Enclosures
I DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613Z MAY 972 Navy Office letterN9714372 of5 Jun 97
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
Th~r 1 o~~1 vc 9~ -1T~
1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
CDF VCDF eM
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sfJ)I1 f-tt8
bMtQ A fke kJi-amp eu~ rI ~ t
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Defence Penlonnel executive
MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
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3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
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FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
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bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
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IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
300597 092832 Received Message
~C~14 UU FOl691415 DE RAYWAD 5058 1500929 Item 1 Serial9a ZlR UUUUU
R 300613ZZ MAY 97 ZOC FM DEFlAV CANBERRA TO ArG 3601 AIG 3602 AIG 3611 aT UNCLAS SIC WAR 149 ALL SHIP 150 ALL SHORE AUSTCOM LONDON FOR HADS SUSJ LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL 1 S~~Y THIS MESSAGE ADVISES OF AN AWARD IlSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT FOR SERVICE DURING THE GULFCONFLICT 2 IN RECOGNITION OF THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE COALITION FORCES DURING THE GULF CONFLICT THE GOVERjgtMENT OF KUWAIT lIAS STRUCK A MEMENTO MEDAL FOR ISSUE TO ALL ADF PERSONNEL WHO SEtVED IN THE PRESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN GULF BE~NEEN ~7]~~91 k~ 28FEB91 3 THE ADF POLICY REGARDING THE M~ElTO S AS FOLLOWS (I) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF THE ADF WHO WEllE SERVIIG
AGE 2 RAYWAD 5058 UNCUS rl THE RESCRIBED OPERATIONAL AREA OF THE ERSIAN ~v~F aETWEE~ 17JAN91 AND 28FEB9t (II) THE MEDAL WILL BE ISSUED AS A SO~~IR (III) THE MEDAL IS lIOT AN OFFICIAL AWARD UNDER THE AUSTRftLk~ HONC~RS SYSTEM AND AS SUCH IS NOT TO 8E WORI IN UNIFORM 4 THE MEDAL WILL NOT BE ENGRAVED HOWEVER THEllE IS NO OBJECTION TO ELIGIBLE ADF MEMBERS IIAVING THE SOUVENIR ENGRAVED AT THEIR OW~ ESPENSE 5 THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT lIAS NO CONTROL IN THE AKE f) TBE DESC~ OF THIS MEMENTO iuD THERE WILL BE NO REPLACEMENT OF LOST IEDALS BY THE ADF 5 THE MEDAL WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ELIGIBLE NAVY PERSONNEL IN DUE COURSE 7 THE CONTACT OFFICER FOR ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS MATTER IS MRS JOSEPHINE DE COSTA TELEPHONE (06) 265 1283 DNATS 865 1283 BT
SIC WAK ACTION DNPS ~ ACPERS-N ASRP-N CN DCN DGPM-N lGSC-N I DNSC DNOP ONP
DNPS DPI-N
14 COPIES
nLL ~AVYIDISTRIBUTIO~ RUSSiCP lclIO copies
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
Th~r 1 o~~1 vc 9~ -1T~
1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
- Depa~mnt 01 Oelence
FOl691415MINUTE Item 1 Serial 9b
Omact Officer Mrs J de CO$ta (06) 2651283
N9714372 DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97
CMDR N A Perry 1SSC POBox 129 CURTIN ACT 2605
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
Reference
A DEFNAV CANBERRA WAK 300613ZZ MAY97 ZOC
I The Government ofKuwait has issued to all Australian Defence Force Personnel who served in the prescnbed operational area of the Persian Gulfbetween 17 Ian 91 and 28 Feb 91 a memento medal
2 A Liberation ofKuwait Medal is forwarded for your retention
3 Policy regarding the memento was promUlgated at the Reference (copy attached)
4 Please sign the enclosed Receipt Fonn and return to this Office
K R FREEMANTLE SOM DNPS(M) D-3-32A
51un97
Enclosure
l Copy ofReference A 2 Liberation ofKuwait Medal (x I) 3 Receipt Note (x I)
KUWMIlUlOC I de Costa
-- -
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
CDF VCDF eM
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Defence Penlonnel executive
MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
Th~r 1 o~~1 vc 9~ -1T~
1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10
ADHQ CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEET
Code Amiddot Action I - Information C - Comment D bull Draft Reply F- File G - Discuss
Appointment Code Action Remarks
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MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
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1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
--~~
Defence Penlonnel executive
MINUTE PE97-18520 j ()C-P -gtn_~PPP 1Jl3f98 ~ bull ~ tr __~ ~(L)p-~~c ~ (F-3-CDFSuite) ~p-I~-
Th~r 1 o~~1 vc 9~ -1T~
1 11 APPROVAL 0 ACCEPT AND WEAR FOREIGN ERVlCE AWARDS shyZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
Reference A Awards and National Symbols Branch Letter 901200 of 30 Nov 90
Purpose
1 To seek your agreement in principle for members of the Australian Defence Force to accept and wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and the Liberation ofKuwait Medal - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Background
2 The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members of the Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Force in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 1983 Restricted approval was sought in accordance with foreign service award policy at the time and because members bad been awarded the Rhodesia Medal in recognition of their service
3 In Jul 90 Headquarters Australian Defence Force sought approval to lift the restriction on wearing the Medal The reply at Reference A (Flag A) indicated that there were a number ofcomplex policy and protocol issues to be considered Specifically consultation with the Palace would be needed and there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative on the issue Additionally there may be unwelcome flow-on effects to other countries involved and Defence should clarify the practice ofother Commonwealth countries in respect of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal The matter was not pursued
__-shy
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
-lt 2
4 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a mernento and the awards were presented to 1200 Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
5 In Aug 95 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to 700 Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek formal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on Australian Defence Force uniform
Considerations
6 Review ofthe circumstances shows there have been a number of significant changes since the issue ofthe acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal was last examined Significantly revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing ofForeign Honours and Awards by Australians were promulgated in Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette No S 548 on 22 Dec 1997 and are more liberal than those previously issued
7 As a foreign service award the Zimbabwe Independence Medal may be considered for acceptance and wearing under the proviSions of the revised Guidelines While eligible members have also been awarded the Rhodesia Medal there is no perceived conflict as this is an Australian award and the circumstances may be equated to the award of the Multinational Force and Observer Medal (foreign award) and the Australian Service Medal for service in the Sinai
8 While aware ofthe issues ofprotocol and the possible flow-on effect of a decision to approve acceptance and wearing of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on other Commonwealth countries these aspects are not considered relevant in reviewing the matter under the revised Guidelines The Queen has endorsed the revised Guidelines and the Governor-General is her delegate for the approval of foreign service awards for members of the Australian Defence Force Additionally other Commonwealth countries will have their own policies relating to acceptance and wearing of foreign awards and these are unlikely to be influenced by their effect on other nations
9 Both the Liberation of Kuwait Medal- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal- Government of Kuwait are eligible for consideration under the revised Guidelines Ofthe two only the Saudi
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
3
Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequently agreed by the Australian Government However policy provisions at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when an Australian award had also been issued As only one foreign award may be approved for wear for a particular operation and the Saudi Government made a formal approach fonnal acceptance ofwearing of this medal is proposed
Recommendation
10 That you agree in principle to eligible members ofthe Australian Defence Force accepting and wearing
a the Zimbabwe Independence Medal and
b the Liberation ofKuwait Medalmiddot Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia
II Subject to your endorsement fonual approval will be sought from the Awards and National Symbols Branch Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
~ GCHAY COL AJDGPFP
Fmiddot3middot66 Tel 54852
~ Jun98
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
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bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
Department of Administrative Services
Awards and National Symbols Branch GPO Qox 1920 Telephone (06) 2753614CANBERRA ACT 2601 Facsimile (06) 275 3629 Ref 90200
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 10a
Cnmmodore J G Longden Director-General Service Personnel policy Department of Defence Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commodore Longden
I refer to your letter of 5 September 1990 (DM897898 SPPl06590) seeking assistance in obtaining approval for qualified members of the Australian Defence Force to wear the Zimbabwe Independence Medal on an unrestricted basis
The proposal as you have outlined raises a number of complex issues from both a policy and protocol point of view
You indicate that in asking for the Zimbabwe Independence Medal to be worn on an unrestricted basis with the Rhodesia Medal yuu are building on precedent as a number of peacekeeping activities have been recognised recently with both an Australian Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal I would be grateful if you could advise of the instances to which you refer This Department has asked to be kept informed of all instances where qualifying service for the Australian awards is prescribed particularly when such prescription inVOlves a duplication of awards At this stage we are aware only of the circumstances relating to service with the MFO in Sinai where permission was given for the MFO award to be worn together with the Australian Service Medal
In the case of the MFO award for Sinai the Minister for Defence wrote to the Prime Minister pointing out the particular reasons for existing practice on the wearing of two awards to be reviewed On 13 March 1989 the Prime Minister advised both the Governor-General and the Minister for Administrative Services of his decision that the wearing of foreign honours or awards by
2
lt
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
2
Australians should no longer be subject to the duplication rule by which we were bound while we participated in the British honours system Nor should there be automatic access to any award The implication is that each decision would depend on the merits of a particular case
In his letter to the Governor-General the Prime Minister explained this decision on the MFO Medal in the following terms
It is the Governmentmiddots view that while the Australian Service Medal should be the primary award made to those who served with the Multinational Force and Observers eligible personnel should also be permitted to wear the Multinational Force and Observers Medal as additional in recognition of service in the Sinai bull
In this case however the Australian Service Medal is not the primary award in question As you are aware the Rhodesia Medal was instituted by The Queen on the advice of the British Government which tabled a Command Paper in the British Parliament on 8 August 1980 to institute the award By that Command Paper the participating forces of Australia were eligible to take up this British award and the Australian Government supported this move In 1993 The Queen granted restricted permission for qualified service members to accept the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
We have a Situation therefore where The Queen has approved one award on the basis of the advice of the British Government (Australian Letters Patent were not involved) and where Her Majestys deCision on the another was made on the basis of British practice before the Prime Ministers decision of 1999 While it may be possible to ask the Governor-General to reconsider Her Majestys decision on the Zimbabwe Independence Medal under the current Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians this would certainly involve Government House consulting with the Palace Because of the unique circumstances surrounding the award of the Rhodesia Medal and Her Majestys previous decision about the Zimbabwe Independence Medal there may be sensitivities about the Royal prerogative that are raised in the resolution of this matter
You would also be aware that under the original conditions for the award of the Zimbabwe Independence Medal Australian service personnel together with those from Britain New Zealand Fijiand Kenya were eligible to receive the award on a restricted basiS To seek to alter current arrangements in Australia could
3
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
1-
3
lead to a flow on effect which may not be appreciated by other participating Commonwealth governments In the recent matter of the MFO Medal Defence argued strongly that it wanted members to be able to wear that award under the same conditions as other Commonwealth country Defence Forces It would be useful for the purposes of considering this current request (and indeed desirable from the point of view of encouraging consistency in advancing the case for duplicate awards) to clarify the practice of other Commonwealth countries in relation to the Zimbabwe Independence Medal
As the Prime Ministers decision on award duplication in 1989 indicated that consideration of such matters should be on a case-by-case basis I believe that the appropriate way to proceed would to pursue this matter would be for the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to raise the issue with the Prime Minister and the Minister for Administrative Services and if it is agreed the request could then to be pursued through the prime Minister with the Governor-General
The letter from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel could consider the issues I have raised above and would have to examine in detail whether the circumstances surrounding the Prime Ministers 1989 decision on the MFO Medal affords a precedent in this case
I have copied this correspondence to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their informatiQn
Yours sincerely
ayen~ HARRY KEEN Assistant Secretary Awards and National Symbols Branch
30 November 1990
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
--FILEI 30
- FOI691415
SOMNI (D-3-24) fec d 7 Item 1 Serial 11
SOHD2 (Hmiddot3middot26) Rclt- d ~1
(c dSOMAFIQBN
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR ZIMBABWE INDEPENDENCE MEDAL AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
I The Zimbabwe Independence Medal was conferred by the Zimbabwe Government on 157 members ofthe Australian Contingent of the Commonwealth Cease Fire Monitoring Foree in Southern Rhodesia in 1980 Her Majesty the Queen granted restricted permission for personnel to accept and wear the Medal on 29 Nov 83
2 The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation ofKuwait Medal to foreign forees which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Jan 91 to 28 Feb 91 The Medal was formally accepted by the Australian Government as a memento and was not to be worn on uniform
3 Under revised provisions relating to foreign service awards it is intended to seek approval for members to accept and wear both awards To this end could you please provide a consolidated list of personnel who received the awards Information requested includes Service No rank initials and surname (Discharged members should be so identified) Your reply would be appreciated by 28 Jul 98
4 Members who served in Kuwait also received a Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Kuwaiti authorities This was issued as a connnemorative award and not to be worn on uniform Please note that approval will only be sought for members to accept and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government as only one foreign service award may be accepted for the same period ofservice
SOHDI 0-4middot26 Tel 52388
o Jul98
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
~I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 12
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 97middot18520 Director General POOIOI1nel Policy and Plans (Starr 0fIIcer Honours and Decorations1 (RH-0014)) Department of Defence CANBERRA Acr 2600
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch 3middot5 National Circuit
BARTON ACT~
Dear~fern
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR LIBERATION OF KUWAJT MEDAL
I The Saudi Government awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal to foreign forces which participated in Operation DESERT STORM from 17 Janwuy 1991 to 28 February 1991 The Medal was fonnally accepted by the Australian Government and other Governments of the Coalition forces as a memento and the awards were presented to eligible Australian Defence Force personnel in this capacity
2 In August 1995 the Kuwaiti authorities issued the Kuwait Liberation Medal to Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the liberation of that country The Kuwaiti Government did not seek fonnal approval for acceptance and wearing of the award and it was issued as a memento not to be worn on unifonn
3 Policy provisions in force at the time precluded acceptance and wearing of foreign awards when ari Australian award had also been issued In this case eligible members qualified for the Australian Active Service Medal Clasp KUWAIT
4 Approval for the acceptance and wearing of one of these two foreign awards may now be considered under the revised Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians promulgated in Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 on 22 December 1997 Of the two awards only the Saudi Government sought fonnal approval for the acceptance and wearing of the award and this was subsequendy agreed by the Australian Government Consequently approval is requested for members of the Australian Defence Force listed at Annexes A to C who served in Operation DESERT STORM between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991 to accept and wear the Saudi Governments Liberation ofKuwait Medal
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
2
5 Your assistance in seeking the necessary approval is appreciated
Yours sincerely
g Commander r Director General Personnel Policy and Plans
RI-l-D030 Tel (02) 62652116
90July 1998
Annexes A List of Royal Australian Navy Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait
Medal B List ofAustralian Army Personnel Awarded the Liberation of Kuwait Medal C List of Royal Australian Air Force Personnel Awarded the Liberation of
Kuwait Medal
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial12a
ANNEXATO PE97middott8510 DATEDjtUUL 98
LIST OF ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY PERSONNEL A WARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
6107198 KUWmiddotMEM
Page 1
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
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IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
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6107198 KUW-MEM
Pag2
6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
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KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
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KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
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6107198 KUW-MEM
Pago 3
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
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Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
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KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
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80798 KUW-MEM
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
KUW-MEM 60798
Page 4
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
KUWmiddotMEM 110798
Pog 5
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
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KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
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80798 KUW-MEM
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
80798 KUWmiddotMEM
bull
Page e
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
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80798 KUW-MEM
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FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
01071118 KUW-MSM
Page 7
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
KUWmiddotMEM 80798
Pege 8
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
KUW-MEM eJ07Il18
Page 9
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
KUW-MEM 610798
Pege 10
L ___________________ _____
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
KUW-MEM 80198
Page 11
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
KUW-MEM 607198
Poae 12
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
KUW-MEM 0107191)
II
Page 13
--------------------_ shyshy
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
80798 KUW-MEM
Page 14
-----------~-~-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12b
ANNEXBTO PE 97-J8520 DATED3t1JUL 98
LIST OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
B-2
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial12c
ANNEXCTO PE97-l8520 DATED3egtJUL 98
LIST OF ROVAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AWARDED THE LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
i- -
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
a4os 98 10K 1102 PAX +81 2 8211$683 AWARDS amp SYMBOLS DEFENCE KACIlOKAL 1iII00I
FOI691415 h3Item 1 Serial 13
THE OEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
Facsimile Cover Sheet To Wing Commander G G MacDonald AM
Deputy Director Honours and Awards Department of Defence
Phone CO2 6265 2116 Fas (02) 62651798
From Ms Anna Topic Secretariat Awards amp National Symbols Branch
Phone (02) 6271 5627 Fax (O2) 6271 5662
Date 24 August 1998 Page (iDcludiDI this one) 2
Comments
Dear Wing Commmccr MacDooald
FOREIGNAWARD The MItoloUl Service MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENl LIeuaulDt Colonel G C Hughes
FOREIGNAIVARD LlbeaJian 0KuwaiT MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPlENIS Penollllel who lerved In Operation DESERT STOQM
FOREIGNAWARD 21mb4bwe ndepende1C MeiDl PROPOSED RECIPIENTS AWitrallllD Contmgmt of the Commonwealth Ceale Fire
Monitorial Force iD Soatblllll Rhodaia
I refer to your lettors to Robert ~cm (16 97-18520) 0129 30 WI 31 July 1998
On 19 August 1998 tho Governor-General grantod permission for CoI0J1C1 Hughes and ADF pcIlIOanel as listed in your attacilnlcnts to ~ept WI weer the above named awards A copy of tho letter from the Deputy Official Secrctaty to the Governor-General to the PlIrliamentary Secrctary (Cabinet) to the Prime ~ is attached for your ~rds
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
24108 98 ON 1502 FAX +81 2 8271amp883 AWARDS 6 SYlBOLS
GcYemmen HcuH Canblml ACT 2IlOO
19 August 1998
Dear Mr Miles
The Govemor-General has asked me to ItIank you for your letters of 13 August 1998 concemlng the prnposals by
the UnlIed Slates Government to confer The Legion of Merit (DegfH ofCommandlilr1 on V1ce Admiral D B Olalmers AO RAN Olililf of Navy AJstralla
the Govemment of Laos to confer the Friflndahip MedlIJ on Mr Robert Jauncey Ausaid oIIIcer In Vientiane Laos
The Gowmmant of the UnIIad states of America to confer The Meritorious Service Medalon lieutenant COlonel G C Hughes of trle AJstrallan AmIy
The Government of Papua New Guinea to conferthe Inriepllndenre MettaI on Ueulenant Colonel I R Grant (Retell
The Government of Saudi Arabia to confer the LIberation of Kuwait Medlll on pelllonnel who served In Operallon DESERT STORM 1991 and
The Govemment of Zimbebllle to award the Zimbabwe Indilpendentamp MedIJl to members of the Australan COntingent of the Commonwealth Ceaae FIre MonlIDt1ng Force In Southem fUloaesla 1980
The Govemor-General has approved the acceptance and wearing of these awards as recommended In your letters
yenours ainceNly
ttilJPampmiddot Qgt~f
Carol Summerhayes Deputy Official Secratary to the Govemor-General
The Hon Chris Mile MHR Parilamentary Secretary (Cabinet) to the Prime Minister Parilamen House CANBERRA ACT 2600
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
I Navy HClIdq_ FOl691415
r Item 1 Serial 14 MINUTE _ shy
CN9737929 ~~~~D~En li l J
DCN 618198 NHQ 5785198
Irll Pilt m Jt-7iS bull HPDE
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDALS
I Recently the government has announced that medals presented for service in the Vietnam War by the government ofSouth Vietnam and cambodia could be worn by recipients During the Gulf War the governments ofKuwait and Saudia Arabia issued medals to the ADF participants Approval was recently given to wear the Saudia award but no mention has been made ofthe Liberation ofKuwait medal Details of the issue ofthe Kuwait medal are enclosed (- N o~aJArr
rctcc() 2 Noting that the Liberation of Kuwait was the military objective of the Gulf War it appears illogical not to be able to wear a medal presented by the government of Kuwait Furthermore oilier armed forces such as the United States do wear the medal and it provides a clear international recognition of those who served in the Gulf in 1991 Ofnote the Gulf War was nota UN operation and no UN medal was aWarded
3 Advice is tIterefore sought as to whether the policy regarding the wearing of the Liberation ofKuwait Medal is being modified to align with tItat recently announced for South Vielnamese and Cambodian awanls
a Dec98
Enclosures I DNPS(M) Kuwaitl97 (N971 1 4372) dated 6 Jun 91 2 DEFNAV CANBERRA message WAK 300613Z May 91
--- ---------
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
bull
r ~
FOI 691415 Item 1 Serial 15
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
PE91-20430 HOPE Igg99
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
LIBERATION OF KUWAIT MEDAL - GOVERNMENT OF KUWAIT
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 618198 of8 Dec 98 B Draft DIG) PERSmiddot Official Acceptance and Wearing ofHonours and Awards Outside
of the Australian System
I Reference A requests advice on the policy concerning the wearing of the Liberation of Kuwait Medalmiddot Government ofKuwait and its alignment with that of the recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards
2 The DI(G) at Reference B has been cleared by all three Service Deputy ChiefS and is now in the process ofbeing cleared by DLD prior to publishing The DIG) reflects Government policy at paragraphs 4 and 12 which state inter alia that awards should be offered through recognised diplomatic channels and that only one foreign service medal will be recognised in addition to any Australian medal received for a particular operation except individual gallantry and meritorious service awards
3 The Liberation of Kuwait Medal - Saudi Government was recently approved by the Government as it had been formally offered to the Australian Government and represented a combined Arabian appreciation ofservice in the Gulf War The Government of Kuwait however never fonnally offered its medal to Australia and as a result it was not considered for official recognition
4 The recent approval to wear South Vietnamese and Cambodian awards relates only to those which were awarded for gallantry or distinguished service during the Vietnam War It follows the introduction ofa new Government guideline on the acceptance and wearing of foreign awards which allows under certain circumstances the formal recognition ofawards issued by a foreign government which no longer exists The official recognition of these individual gallantry and meritorious service awards follows that given ttl similar US awards after negotiations with the US in 1995 The only medal accepted for service in Vietnam generally is the Republic ofVietnam Campaign Medal It was accepted by the Australian Government at the time of the Vietnam war after a formal offer by the Government of the Republic ofVietnam
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
2
5 No comparison can therefore be made in relation to the policy behind the approval of the South Vietnamese and Cambodian awatds and the fonna) approval of the Liberation of Kuwait Medal bull Government ofKuwait
6 Notwithstanding that above an approach will be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet requesting that the Govenunent review the position in relation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait and official recognition of the medal
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
-~ FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 16
DEFENCE PERSONNEL EXECUTIVE
PE 99-1325
Mr Robert Redfern Director Secretariat Awards and National Symbols Branch Department ofthe Prime Minister and Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
DearMr Redfem
APPROVAL TO ACCEYf AND WEAR THE KUWAIT MEDAL
DIrectorate General Career Management Polley (0fnIcI0r HonouI1l and Awards) 0epar1ment of Defence CANBERRA ACT 2600
LIBERATION
I I refer to our letter reference PE97-l8520 of 30 July 1998 which sought approval for nominated Australian Defence Force persolUlel to accept and wear the Liberation of Kuwait Medal The letter explained that two foreign service awards had been offered for serviee in Kuwait They were the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Government and the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government The Saudi Government officially approached the Australian Government seeking approval for members 10 accepl and wear the award Huwever due to foreign service policy in place at the time the award could not be accepted officially and was issued as a memento of service The Kuwaiti Government did not make a formal approach to the Australian Government and their medal was also issued as a memento ofserviee in the Gulf Taking into account that only one foreign service award may be wom for service in the same location during the same period of time approval was only sought for the Saudi award
2 On 19 August 1998 the Governor-General granted permission for nominated members to accepl and wear the Liberation ofKuwait Medal
3 On behalf of their members Navy Headquarters has lobbied for approval to accepl and wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal provided by the Kuwaiti Government on the grounds that it appears illogical for Australian Defence Force members not to wear the award and that the United Stales Armed Forces have approval to accept and wear the award
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
2to
4 In accordance with the Guidelines Concerning the Acceptance and Wearing of Foreign Honours and Awards by Australians as published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No S 548 of 22 December 1997 proposals to give Australian citizens foreign awards should be made in advance through recognised diplomatic or other official channels with full details of the reasons for the proposed award Additionally it has not been practice in the past to approve two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame Accordingly your advice would be appreciated on the appropriateness of
a nquesting the Kuwaiti Government to make a formal approach to the Australian Government for approval for the acceptance of their award and
b awarding Australian Defence Force personnel two foreign service awards for service in the same area of operations in the same time frame
Yours sincerely
TN BLOOMFIELD Commander RAN for Director General Career Management Policy
RImiddotImiddotD030 Tel (02) 62652116
f9 March 1999
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
I
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 17
THE DEPARTMENT OF
THE PRIME MINISTER AND CABINET
TEJEPHQNE (Q2)G1 Sttf
fACSMLI (02) an $C4
Commander Tim Bloomfield AM Director Honours and Awards Career Management Policy Department ofDefence CANBERRA ACT 2600
Dear Commander Bloomfield
Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 1999 about the Kuwait Liberation Medal You sought advice on the appropriateness ofapproaching the Kuwaiti government to make a formal offer oftheir medal and the wearing of two foreign awards for the same operation on ADF uniforms
These are important questions and you may be able to gauge how to proceed or otherwise ifyou are familiar with the background to the cunent more liberalized foreign award Guidelines put in place on 22 December 1997
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
- bull I
I hope this reply has been helpful
Yours sincerely
Robert Redfem Adviser Awards and National Symbols Branch
1 April 1999
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
r
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 18
Defence Personnel executive
MINUTE
APP
I(JI~ 74
OVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LmERATION MEDAL
References A CN97137929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 6 1898 ofs Delt 98 B PE 91-20430 HDPE 188199 of22 Mar 99 C Letter from the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
1 At Reference A (Flag I) DCN sought advice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government DCN believes that it appears illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Govermnent
2 At Reference B (Flag 2) DCN was advised that an approach would be made to the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in relation to a funnal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag 3) advises that when the current fureign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible embarrassment by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign goverilmcint than on the members service could be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of foreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of fureign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C alsO indicated that awarding of an additional fureign service award fur service in the Gulf could be seen as confronting the Queens concerns
4 Taking into account the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking approval to wear a second foreign service award fur service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Goverrunent may well be offended if a formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
--f 2
confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a foreign government
5 Under these Circumstances and given that the service of ADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the award of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justifY a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek fonnal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Should you agree with this position the enclosed reply to DCN is submitted for your consideration
RImiddotI-C021 Tel 54852
( Apr99
-~ ------------shy
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
5 lt
--
bull
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 19
Defence Personnel Exeeutlve
MINUTE PE 99-1325 HDPE240199
DCN (RI-4-COO2)
APPROVAL TO ACCEPT AND WEAR KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
References A CN9737929 NHQ 5785198 DCN 61898 of8 Dec 98 B PE 91-20430 HOPE 18899 0(22 Mar 99 C Letter ampom the Department of The Prime Minister and Cabinet of I Apr 99
I At Referenee A you sought ad vice on the policy regarding the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal awarded to ADF personnel by the Kuwaiti Government You eonsidered that it appeared illogical not to be able to wear the medal as members of other armed forces such as the United States of America are allowed the wear the award together with the Liberation of Kuwait Medal awarded by the Saudi Oovernment
2 Reference B advised you that an approach would be made to the Department ofThe Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMampC) asking that the Government review the position in mation to a formal offer by the Government of Kuwait
3 The DPMampC reply at Reference C (Flag I) advises that when the current foreign service award regulations were being processed Her Majesty the Queen expressed the view that she hoped that any possible emb8IT8SSll1ent by the display of medals resulting more from the generosity of a foreign government than on the mempers service eould be avoided through strict rules on the wearing of fbreign orders and decorations The Australian Government reassured Her Majesty on this point and the Prime Minister gave an undertaking that the wearing of foreign orders and decorations by Australians would be carefully monitored and considered on a basis of equivalence and subject to the over-riding principle of national interest Reference C also indicated that awarding of an additional foreign service award for service in the Gulfcould be seen as confronting the Queens conceros
4 Taking into aceount the Reference C comments it is considered that the national interest would not be served by seeking appruval to wear a second foreign service award for service in the Gulf Indeed the Kuwaiti Government may well be offended ira formal approach is made through diplomatic channels to wear an award which they issued in good faith several years ago Additionally it could be viewed as confronting the Sovereigns concern about ADF personnel wearing awards which may have been issued as a token gesture by a fbreign government
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
2
5 The ADF policy on the acceptance and wearing of foreign service awards is designed to maintain the integrity of the Australian honours and awards system and to avoid the wearing of a proliferation of awards In this respect the ADF policy clearly differs tiom that of the United States ofAmerica and the two should not be compared
6 Under these circumstances and given that the service ofADF personnel in the Gulf has already been recognised through the awam of one foreign service award I believe it would be difficult to justify a case to the Minister to approach the Kuwaiti Government asking them to seek formal approval through diplomatic channels to award the Kuwait Liberation Medal Additionally I consider that the success of any such submission is unlikely For these reasons I do not consider it politic to pursue the issue further
~ -~---------- - -----shy
RImiddotI-COO3 Tel 56902
20 Apr 99
------------_ -_ shyI
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
--
IFOl691415V-ke Pat- Item 1 Senal 20 From Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Oarke Pat Subject KuwaH liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response 10 the Kuwait Uaison OffIce following our discussions last week rwould be grateful if you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance if you think necessary
Best Wishes
~~EastampCanada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
Jj
1
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 20a
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
2600 AUSTRAUA
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Al-Wazzan Assistant ChiefofKuwait Liaison Office PO BOll 39 WODEN ACT 2606
At our meeting last week you raised the issue of the Australian Governments present policy ofnot allowing Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the GulfWar to wear the Kuwait Liberation Medal I have investigated this matter further and ascertained that the medals cannot presently be worn by ADF personnel because of the informal way in which they were presented to the Australian government a few years ago
Therefore in seeking to redress this situation your Government should formerly approach the Australian Government through diplomatic correspondence directed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and request that the medal be awarded to all ADF personnel who served in the GulfWar
However I have been informed that it is Australian Government policy to allow only one foreign award to be presented to ADF personnel for any campaign As the Saudi Arabian Medal was accepted following the conclusion of the GulfWar it is uncertain as to whether the Kuwait Liberation Medal could also be awarded
I hope this information is useful in advising your Government as to the current situation
MATI RAMAGE Policy Officer Middle East International Policy Division
RI-5-C100 Russell Offices (02) 6265 2194
April 2000
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
I q-ke Pat IFOl69f14f15 - ~~---------~------------------------1~lte~m~1~S~en~a~12~1~r-From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 933 To Clarke Pat robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNClASSIFIED - FVV Kuwait liberation Medal
Pat
I don have any issue with the content albelll believe hal we need 10 be a little more forthright For example a paragraph that Australia has an Honours and Awards System which is the primary recogn~ion of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards is complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
Acceptance of any additiOnal Foreign Awards would create an unwanted precedent that would generate claims from personnel Involved In other campaigns seeking recogntliOn other awards (Korea Is a very similar case In Question)
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-From Ctarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 AprU 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertreclfempmcgovau SubjlKlt SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwaitllberation Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message--shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat SubjlKlt Kuwait Liberation Medal Importance High
Dear Pal
I have written a response to the Kuwait liaison otflCe following our discussions las week I would be grateful If you could clear it before sending please Please forward also 10 PMampC for clearance If you think necessary
Best Wishes
~0fIj~East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6346
laquo File medalskudoo raquo
1
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
- IFOl6914115~kePat Item 1 Senal 22 From Bloomfield Timothy Sent Wednesday 12 April 2000 1001 To Clarke Pat Subject FW SEC UNCLASSIFIEDmiddot FW Kuwan liberation Medal
as discussed
TimB
--Original Message-shy
Robert RlMffeJ11
~~~~~~~~~~F~W=Kuwait Liberation Medal
DearTlm
Thank you for the opportunity to see the draft leller from DoDs International Policy Division to the Assistant Chief of Kuwaft Liaison Office about the Kuwait liberation Medal
This advice has been cleared through International Division Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
Thank you for consulting on this matter
Robert Redfern Adviser Awarns and National Symbols Tel (02) 6271 5617 mbed redfempmG goy au
gtgtgt Bloomfield Timothy ltTimothy BloomfieldcbrdefeDC gpyaultmalltgUmotbll Bloomfjeldregrbr defencegpy auraquo 0411100 0932am raquogt
Pat
I dont have any Issue with the content albeit I believe thai we need to be a IitUe more forthright For example a paragraph that Auslralia has an Honours and Awards System which Is the primary recognition of ADF personnel The policy on acceptance and wearing of Foreign Awards IS complimentary to this policy and ensures primacy of the Australian Honours System
1
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
Tim Bloomfield Commander RAN Director Honours and Awards
--Original Message-
From Clarke Pat Sent Tuesday 11 April 2000 908 To Bloomfield Timothy robertredfempmcgovau Subject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - FW Kuwait Liberation
Medal Importance High
Tim Robert
Any suggestions on this - Pat
--Original Message-shyFrom Ramage Matt Sent Monday 10 April 2000 1011 To Clarke Pat Subject Kuwait Liberation Medal
Importance High
Dear Pat
I have written a response 10 the Kuwan Uaison OffICe following our discussions last week t would be grateful if you could dear il before sending please Please forward also to PMampC for dearance if you think necessary
Best WisheS
Malt Ramage Policy Ofk8r Middle East amp Canada Intemational Policy DiviSion Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
laquo File medalskudoc raquo
-----------------~-----
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
FOI 691415 ~ ~Pat I S 2_ ~~~______-~~~--______________________~~t~em~1~er~la~I~3JIFrom Bloomfield Timothy Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1501 To Clarke Pat Subject RE SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwaie Medals
more than happy Pat
TimB
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Thursday 13 April 2000 1445 To Bloomfield TimothY robertredfernpmcgovaumiddotSubject SEC UNCLASSIFIED - Kuwsite Medals
Gentlemen
I have again been approached by IPO Division thanking us for our advice and that they have spoken 10 the KuwaH Defence Liaison Officer The Kuwait Embassy respects our advice and POlicy and Is no~ therefore so much concerned about whether or not official acceptance and wearing Is given o their medal but how to respond 10 ADF personnel who are lobbying them 10 lobby our Government 10 have the medal officiaRy approved for wearing on uniform In other words how 10 respond 10 whlngers who are giving them the irrates
I suggest that we advise IPO Division that the Kuwan Embassy could respond 10 the whingers along the following lines
The Australian system ofhonours end awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one fotagn service award for any operation may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian 8W8rdS for service and make the system meaningless The Government ofKuwait accepts this policy ofAustralia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier It may have bean accepted bafota any otherforegn awards for service In the liberation ofKuwait In 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and Ills now too late for It to happen
It Is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwall Governmants Liberation Medal cennot be offICially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civUlan altiramp on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who aramp entitled to do so This Is a fitting and appropriete gesturamp and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Govemmant that rampgard Is In fact paid to their awardby Australia
Any comments
Regards - Pat
1
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
iFOI 691415O-ke Pat Itern 1 Senal24-From Sent To
Ramage Mati Friday 14 April 2000 859 Clarke Pat
Subject RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I greatly appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for the difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
flI1dt [fjfa Policy OffICer~East amp Canada International Policy Dlvlslon Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
--Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati Subject Kuwait Medals
Malt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are Itrftating them about the Kuwaft Liberation Medal It has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this IS why only one foreign servioe award for any operstion may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for servioe and make the system meaningless The Government of Kuwait acoepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Government offered Its award earlier it may have been acoepted before any other foreign awards for servioe in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did n01 occur and it is now too late for it to happen It is acknowledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Uberation Medal cannot be Officially wom by Australians in unifonn it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day until V Apr CMDR Tim BloomflBld may be contacted In my absencaonX52116 Emai BloomflBld Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
ADHQ
19 DEC 2002 --------~--------_~ltE~m 1 Serial 25
General Pl Cosgrove AC MC Chiefofthe Defence Force Rl-SB-CDFSUITE Russell Offices CANBERRA ACT 2600
December 2002
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
----
A copy
FOl691415 Item 1 Serial 26
MinuteDoIence_FILE COpy ~DEFENCE
PERSONNEL
9120430 DPE t03
CDF
KUWAIT LIBERATION MEDAL
I I refer to your CDFIlNI20024) 07 of 19 Dec 02 requesting comment on a letter from the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces concerning the wearing of the Kuwait Liberation Medal by members of the ADF
2 In 1998 the Government of Saudi Arabia formally offered to the Australian Govemment the Saudi Arabian Libemtion of Kuwait Medal to mark the service of ADF personnel during the Gulf War The Australian Government formally accepted the offer in 1998 The Kuwait Liberation Medal was presented without the normal protocols ie through diplomatic or other official channels until 2000 when the Kuwait Liaison Office formally raised the matter
3 PMampC guidance was sought who advised that approval to wear the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would be counter to the Governments policy of one foreign award per campaign A Saudi Arabian medal had already been approved for wearing by ADF personnel who served in the Gulf War A response was sent to the Kuwait Liaison Office outlining the Governments policy
4 The maintenance of one foreign award per campaign has been central to Australias awards policy for many decades Any move to change this approach by the formal acceptance of the Kuwait Libemtion Medal would compromise this position and has the potential to open up other cases that have been settled
f previous correspondence regarding the medal is enclosed
BL ADAMS AM RADMRAN HOPE
RI-I-C003 Tel 62656902 Fax 6265 6349
( ~Jan03
Enclosure I Copy of previous email regarding the Kuwait Libemtion Medal
------~shy
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-
lt=------ ENCLOSURE 1 TO FOI 691415 DPE 16103
(I(8 Pat Item 1 Serial 26a 14 JAN 1003-~~----------------~-=~~~---shyFrom Ramage Mati Sent Friday 14 April 2000 859 To Clarke Pat SubJect RE Kuwait Medals
Importance High
Thanks Pat
I gready appreciate your assistance on this Issue and apologise for he difficulties it created
Best Wishes and thanks again
II fJlampm(~l Policy Offteer Midale East amp Canada International Policy Division Ph - (02) 6265 2194 Fx - (02) 6265 6348
-Original Message-shyFrom Clarke Pat Sent Friday 14 April 2000 844 To Ramage Mati SubJect Kuwait Medals
Matt
Following is a suggested response that the Kuwait Embassy could consider for those persons who are irritating them abOut the Kuwait liberation Medal II has been cleared by both the Director HampA and DPMampC
The Australian system of honours and awards provides predominantly for recognition by Australian awards and this is why only one foreign service award for any operatIOn may be considered for additional recognition by Australia To do otherwise would overshadow Australian awards for service and make the system meaningless The Govemment of Kuwait accepts this policy of Australia and acknowledges that had the Kuwait Govemment offered its award eanier it may have been accepted before any other foreign awards for service in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991 Unfortunately this did not occur and it is now too late for it to happen
It is acknOWledged by the Kuwait Government however that although the Kuwait Governments Liberation Medal cannot be Officially worn by Australians in uniform it can be worn in civilian attire on special days such as ANZAC Day and other commemorative occasions with pride by those who are entitled to do so This is a fitting and appropriate gesture and provides satisfaction to the Kuwait Government that regard is in fact paid to their award by Australia
If you need further advice this is my last day unt~ 27 Apr CMDR Tim Bloomfield may be contacted In my absence on X52116 Email Bloomfield Timothy
Cheers - Pat Clarke
1
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3pdf
-