1939 45 STAR Attachment:Brooch Bar after which it was replaced 100011 after which it was replaced by the Defence Long Service Medal Purpose: Recognizes service in operations not fully covered by the Australian Active Service Medal a period of six months (180 days) operational service for RAN and Army personnel and RAAF non air crew personnel a period of two months operational service for air crew personnel a period of six months service at sea for Merchant Navy provided at least one voyage was made through one of the specified areas of active operations The 1939 45 Star is awarded to Australian Civilian Personnel who served afloat with the United States Army Small Ships Section between 8 December 1941 and 2 September 1945 The 1939 45 Star is awarded for operational service between 3 September 1939 and 2 September 1945 for: a period of six months (180 days) operational service for RAN and Army personnel and RAAF non air crew personnel