The Pentagon has created a new medal to honor the thousands of U.S. troops who have deployed to Iraq or Syria to support operations against Islamic State militants.

The Operation Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal will be awarded to service members who have deployed to Iraq or Syria or its airspace or territorial waters since June 15, 2014, a defense official said.

About 11,000 troops are already eligible for the new medal, which Defense Secretary Ash Carter will announce Wednesday.

To qualify, individuals must spend at least 30 consecutive days in Iraq or Syria or a total of 60 nonconsecutive days, a defense official said.