Insignia of the Operational Service Medal

Blazon

Suspended by a claw affixed to a clasp Argent from a ribbon edged Gules and Argent (the main colour of the ribbon in accordance with the particular operation, as specified by the Governor in Council), a medal Argent the obverse bearing a contemporary effigy of Her Majesty The Queen of Canada contourné, wearing a diadem of maple leaves and snowflakes, and environed by the inscriptions ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA and CANADA separated by two maple leaves, the reverse bearing a Goode interrupted homolosine projection of the globe ensigned by the Royal Crown between two sprigs of three maple leaves, all above a branch of laurel and a branch of oak their stems in saltire;

Symbolism

The obverse carries an effigy of the Sovereign, in whose name the medal is bestowed. The Queen is depicted wearing a diadem composed of maple leaves and snowflakes, representing Canada. The reverse of the medal indicates its purpose, which is to recognize service or support to overseas operations. The scope of Canada’s involvement throughout the world is represented by the globe projection. The branches of laurel and oak leaves symbolize honour, strength and victory. The sprigs of maple leaves and the Royal Crown reinforce the idea of service to the Canadian Crown.

The red and white edges of the ribbon are the national colours of Canada, and the colour of the broad stripe in the centre of the ribbon indicates the particular operation, theatre or type of service for which the medal is awarded.