The Operational Service Medal is in the form of a 36 mm diameter cupro-nickel disc with, on the obverse, the words ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA (Latin abbreviation for: Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, Queen) and CANADA separated by small maple leaves and surrounding an effigy of Queen Elizabeth II wearing a Canadian diadem of maple leaves and snowflakes, symbolizing her roles as both fount of honour and Commander-in-Chief of the Canadian Forces.