[Old Sarge]

Does it trivialize the importance of the mission that way or am I reading to much into it?

::kindly:: Yes, FRiend, you're reading too deeply.

Expeditionary Forces have been part of military operations throughout modern history. It means that your troops are leaving friendly shores and lands, venturing into the unknown country of the foe.

What I do like is, the Homeland Defenders are being recognized, as well...

[Severa]

Yep, my husband has as part of his 'chest candy' an Arctic Expeditionary ribbon, as he's crossed the Arctic circle and roamed around that area a few times. I'm not sure if he'll qualify for this ribbon though as he never saw action in the current hot spots of the world. But his cousin David, who is 101st Airborne, certainly will.