The Canadian Forces (CF) Unit Commendation may be awarded to any formation, unit or subunit of the CF, or to any similar organization of a foreign armed force working with or in conjunction with the CF, that has performed a deed or activity considered beyond the demands of normal duty. It may be awarded to winners of competitions only under very exceptional circumstances.

The CF Unit Commendation is accompanied by a special commemorative flag (with proportions of one-and-a-half by one) and a gold medallion. The medallion's design is embossed on the scroll.

The medallion is kept as a permanent symbol of the award. The flag may be flown by units or openly displayed in unit accommodations as a public distinction for a period of one year from the date of the announcement of the award. Thereafter, the flag may be kept as an historical artefact and memento of the award.

This unit citation was awarded to 439 Squadron for her role as the lead squadron of the famed Desert Cats of the Gulf & Kuwait War. For 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with 26 aircraft and 300 people, 439 along with her sister Squadron (416) flew more than 50 air-ground bombing missions, as well as performing numerous sweep and  escort duties for Coalition Forces in theatre.