3. Criteria: a. The Prisoner of War Medal is issued only to those U.S. military personnel who were taken prisoner and held captive after 5 April 1917;

        (1) While engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States;

        (2) While engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or

        (3) While serving with friendly forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.

    b. Civilians who have been credited with military service which included the period of captivity are also eligible for the medal.