Leaders approve combat device for expeditionary ribbon Published April 9, 2004 WASHINGTON (AFPN) -- Secretary of the Air Force Dr. James G. Roche and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. John P. Jumper have approved the addition of a gold border to the Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon to signify satisfactory participation in combat operations. "This gold border, signifying participation in combat operations, reflects the global, expeditionary nature of airpower and our Air Force," General Jumper said. "It recognizes the highly professional service of our Airmen in designated geographic combat areas of operations, and the service of those who produce combat effects by employing airpower capabilities from outside that area.”Airmen meeting the established criteria for award of the basic ribbon, 45 consecutive days or 90 nonconsecutive days in a designated combat zone, will also qualify for the gold border signifying participation in combat operations. In addition to the criteria for time in the area of responsibility, Airmen who are wounded or die while serving in the area, and those who participate in mobility operations into the designated area and who launch weapons into the area will qualify for the device. This includes air mobility and bomber aircrews flying missions outside the area of responsibility, as well as Airmen involved in space operations and remotely piloted vehicle operations that produce weapons effects in the AOR.