BACKGROUND: The medal was authorized by General Orders 40, dated June 1915 and was awarded to Army officers and enlisted personnel who served with the occupation forces in Cuba from 18 July 1898 to 20 May 1902.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: A bronze medal, 35mm in diameter, with the Coat of Arms of the Cuban Republic within a wreath above which are the dates "1898" and "1902". Around the circumference is embossed the words "Army of Occupation Military Government of Cuba". On the reverse of the medal is a trophy which consists of an eagle perched on a cannon supported by, rifles, an Indian shield, crossed flags, a Cuban machete, a spear and quiver of arrows, and a Sulu kris. Of Note: The standards represent, the Revolution; the War of 1812; the Mexican War; the Spanish-American War; and the Philippine Insurrection which are the five great wars that the United States was involved in as of 1905. Below the eagle are the words, in raised letters, " FOR SERVICE", and encircling it are on the top half the raised letters "UNITED STATES ARMY" and on the bottom half thirteen stars. The medal loop and ribbon suspension ring are both intact along with ribbon and pin back device.