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Ky. storm relief efforts may earn medal

Soldiers who supported relief efforts in the wake of a massive winter storm that paralyzed much of Kentucky early this year are eligible for the Humanitarian Service Medal.

To qualify for the award, soldiers must have been on active duty at the time they directly participated in the relief effort, which ran from Jan. 26 to Feb. 24.

Approval authority for the award is the Cincinnati-based commander of the Army Corps of Engineer Division for the Great Lakes and Ohio River. The approval authority for veterans and retirees is the commander of Human Resources Command.

The Humanitarian Service Medal, established in 1977, is awarded to members of the active and reserve components who are on active status when they directly support national and international relief missions.

The medal ranks in front of the Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal and behind the Armed Forces Service Medal.

The Kentucky ice storm of early 2009 resulted in a power outage for more than 700,000 homes, and the mobilization of nearly 5,000 National Guard soldiers.

Soldiers who believe they are eligible for the HSM should consult MilPer Message 09-242.