Authorized by the Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Force, October 12, 1980.
Before January 6, 1986, the ribbon was awarded to Air Force and Air Force Reserve members credited with completion of an overseas tour on or after September 1, 1980. Air Force and Air Force Reserve members serving as of January 6, 1986, or later are entitled to reflect all Air Force overseas tours credited during their career. A Service member may wear both ribbons, if appropriate. The short tour ribbon takes precedence over the long-tour ribbon when both are worn. Subsequent awards are denoted by oak leaf clusters.

Graphics & Information Courtesy of United States Air Force