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What conflict was this medal made for?

This medal was created for the 1964 border war between Somalia and Ethiopia. It served as a way to honor the men who fought in these specific battles along the frontier. This conflict was a major test for the young Somali army that had only recently formed.

Why was the war fought?

The war started because of arguments over where the border lines should be between the two nations. Both countries claimed the same land as their own. These disagreements led to actual fighting between border police and the main army units.

Who was eligible to wear it?

The medal was given to Somali soldiers and border guards who served in the combat zone. Support staff who worked in the area during the fighting also received this award. It became a proud symbol for the veterans who defended the country's borders during that time.

Was Somalia already independent when this medal was made?

Yes, Somalia gained its freedom from colonial rule in 1960. The government created this award just four years later in 1964. It was one of the very first military honors ever made by the new country.

Can this medal be awarded today?

No, you cannot earn this medal anymore. It was only made for the soldiers who were in the fight back in 1964. Since that war ended many years ago, the list of people who can get this award is now closed.

What conflict was this medal made for?

This medal was created for the 1964 border war between Somalia and Ethiopia. It served as a way to honor the men who fought in these specific battles along the frontier. This conflict was a major test for the young Somali army that had only recently formed.

Why was the war fought?

The war started because of arguments over where the border lines should be between the two nations. Both countries claimed the same land as their own. These disagreements led to actual fighting between border police and the main army units.

Who was eligible to wear it?

The medal was given to Somali soldiers and border guards who served in the combat zone. Support staff who worked in the area during the fighting also received this award. It became a proud symbol for the veterans who defended the country's borders during that time.

Was Somalia already independent when this medal was made?

Yes, Somalia gained its freedom from colonial rule in 1960. The government created this award just four years later in 1964. It was one of the very first military honors ever made by the new country.

Can this medal be awarded today?

No, you cannot earn this medal anymore. It was only made for the soldiers who were in the fight back in 1964. Since that war ended many years ago, the list of people who can get this award is now closed.

Home Library SomaliaMedal for the War with Ethiopia

Campaign medal

Medal for the War with Ethiopia

A campaign medal created for Somali soldiers who took part in the 1964 border conflict.

Somalia Established 1964 All servicesPrecedence: Precedes subsequent campaign medals like the Ogaden War medal

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded for military service during the 1964 border war.

Eligibility

Somali soldiers and security personnel deployed to the border combat zone.

Branch

All services

Precedence

Precedes subsequent campaign medals like the Ogaden War medal

Medal for the War with Ethiopia, Campaign medal, Somalia medal

History

The Medal for the War with Ethiopia was created by the early Somali Republic following the 1964 border war. Tensions along the frontier led to open fighting between border units and regular military forces.

This medal was one of the earliest campaign awards struck by the newly independent Somali military. It was given to soldiers, border guards, and support personnel who defended the country's disputed frontier positions.

Over time, it became a proud badge worn by senior officers and long-serving veterans who formed the backbone of the young Somali National Army.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

1964 Ethiopian–Somali Border War

Veterans Who Received This Award

Realistic illustration of the military medals and badges awarded to Mohamed Siad Barre, including Medal for Military Service, National Liberation Medal, Defence Superior Service Medal, Foundation of the Supreme Revolutionary Council Medal, Gold Medal for Bravery and Service, Somali National Army Order of Honor, Medal for the War with Ethiopia, Medal for the Ogaden War, Medal for Military Valour, Order of the Somali Star, shown against a light Somalia flag background. AI-generated illustration, not an authentic photograph.

Cold War

Medal for Military Service National Liberation Medal Defence Superior Service Medal+7

Mohamed Siad Barre

Who Was Major General Mohamed Siad Barre?

Leader of Somalia during the Cold War and the Ogaden conflict.

Somalia1977-1978

Read Story

Sources

Back to Somalia