First Special Service Force Congressional Gold Medal

The First Special Service Force (the “Force”) was a highly trained group of volunteers from the United States and Canada that was activated in July 1942. Its mission was to target military and industrial installations that supported the German war effort. It was the only joint American-Canadian unit formed during World War II.

Following rigorous training in hazardous, arctic conditions, the elite joint force was deployed to Italy in October 1943, where its members engaged in combat in high altitudes, rugged terrain, and severe weather.

The Force was instrumental in repelling the advance of Nazi Germany and liberating numerous communities in France and Italy. After the Allied forces secured the Franco-Italian border, the unit was disbanded December 5, 1944. During 251 days of combat, the Force suffered 2,314 casualties, or 134 percent of its authorized strength, captured thousands of prisoners, earned five United States campaign stars and eight Canadian battle honors, and never failed a mission.

The bronze medal pictured is a duplicate of the Congressional Gold Medal.