To earn the Maryland National Guard (MDNG) Counter Drug Ribbon, members of the Guard must have been assigned to MDNG Counter Drug Program (supply or demand reduction) for a minimum of 365 cumulative days while under State or Federal active-duty status. Additionally, the member had to display exemplary drill and AT attendance and complete all scheduled professional development and physical fitness examinations.
In 2010, both the Counter Drug Ribbon and the Honor Guard Guard Team Ribbon were disestablished. Guard members who would have qualified for either of those decorations are now awarded the Maryland Military Department Special Services Ribbon (MMDSSR). While the new ribbon can be issued retroactively for qualifying service in the Counter Drug Program, the process is not automatic, and commanders will not request the new ribbon for members under their command.