This general service award has been created as a means to recognize in a
timelier manner those who provide direct support to operations in the
presence of an armed enemy. Rather than creating a new honour for each
new Canadian Forces operation as it arises, the General Campaign Star (GCS)
and General Service Medal (GSM) – with their theatre or service specific
ribbons – can be awarded in future to honour participation in any operation
that meets the criteria provided that the service is not counted towards
another service medal. The General Campaign Star (GCS) is awarded to
members of the Canadian Forces and members of allied forces working with
the Canadian Forces who deploy into a defined theatre of operations to take
part in operations in the presence of an armed enemy.