UN Organization in Congo (ONUC)

Context

ONUC was established initially in July 1960 to ensure the withdrawal of Belgian forces, to assist the Government in maintaining law and order, and to provide technical assistance. The function of ONUC was subsequently modified to include maintaining the territorial integrity and the political independence of the Congo, preventing the occurrence of civil war, and securing the removal from the Congo of all foreign military, paramilitary and advisory personnel not under the United Nations Command, and all mercenaries. On completion of the mandate, the Mission was withdrawn in June 1964.

Eligibility and criteria

Awarded for 90 days consecutive service between 14 July 1960 to 30 June 1964.

The UN strictly applies their medals policy and will not consider requests for initial issue of the UN medals that are submitted more than one year after repatriation from the mission area.

The qualifying service is not required for members killed or presumed killed while on assignment. In such cases, the medal may be awarded posthumously.

Description

A circular bronze alloy medal, 1.4 inches (35mm) in diameter:

• On the obverse, the representation of the UN symbol surmounted by the straight letters UN, both in bas-relief.
• On the reverse, an inscription bearing the words "IN THE SERVICE OF PEACE" in English (and only in English).

A 0.5 inch (12mm) bronze ring, which holds the ribbon, passes through a small hollow ball at the top of a claw joined to the top of the medal.

The ribbon carries a broad centre band of green, symbolic of hope which was thought to be appropriate for a young nation, and also to represent the Congo Basin. The centre band is flanked by two narrow white bands, representing the UN Mission, and at either end are two bars of UN blue.

Bar(s)

There is no bar to this medal.

Wearing

The medal shall be worn in sequence prescribed in the Canadian Orders, Decorations and Medals Directive, and in the following manner:

• on the left breast, suspended from the ribbon described above, after the UNMOGIP medal and before the UNTEA medal.

Post-nominals

The use of a post-nominal is not authorized for this medal.

Historical notes

The following is a list of members who have died while serving in the theatre of operations:

• S/Sgt Marquis J.P.C.
• Sgt Moore R.H.