The East Timor Medal was instituted in 2001 to recognise New Zealand personnel (both military & non military) who served in East Timor from the commencement of the New Zealand involvement in June 1999 until April 2006. New Zealand East Timor Medal was issued to over 5000 New Zealanders. It is unique in that it has been awarded to civilians from more than a dozen New Zealand government, philanthropic, or commercial organizations.