Border Operations Service Medal Act

H.R. 3780, the Border Operations Service Medal Act, would authorize the issuance of a new Border Operations Service Medal to recognize servicemembers and federal personnel who served in designated U.S. border operations starting January 1, 2025, through the conclusion of those operations. The Medal would be designed and awarded by the Department of Defense (DoD) in consultation with the service branches, and eligible recipients would include active-duty military members as well as members of the National Guard and Reserve who participated in the designated operations. Recipients would be allowed to wear the Medal in accordance with military uniform regulations and federal recognition guidelines. Implementing regulations would be issued within 60 days of enactment. The bill cites findings that President’s January 2025 Executive Order authorized national security operations along the U.S.-Mexico border and that personnel contributed to security, humanitarian, and enforcement efforts, arguing that a distinct Medal is warranted to honor their dedication. It does not specify funding, detailed eligibility criteria, or administration beyond requiring the DoD to issue implementing regulations and to consult with the heads of the military services.