Posted on Feb 13, 2019
SPC Cavalry Scout
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In 2011-2014 I did much volunteer work to exceed the standard for the MOVSM. My question is this, can I submit this award through my current unit? I also continue volunteer work, but the main part was during a different unit back in 2014. I know it's most likely command discretion, but will it even make it to the command or kicked back instantly? Thanks for any insight.
Posted in these groups: Us medals AwardsVolunteers needed Volunteer
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MSG Intermediate Care Technician
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Regulation standard is 2 years maximum time between action(s) and submission of recommendation. But, with the MOVSM (3 yrs and/or 500 hours), it probably be different since the BN CDR has approving authority for this award and the length of time given to get 500 hrs. Speak with your S1 to get further guidance
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LTC Jason Mackay
LTC Jason Mackay
5 y
MSG (Join to see) - agree since the minimum guidance is 3years/500hrs, I recommend that SPC (Join to see) roll his current volunteer work into the previous period's volunteer work. That skirts the two year recognition rule.

How did you document it? Do you have your volunteer hours logged into ACS's system? Letter from the volunteer organization?
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SPC Cavalry Scout
SPC (Join to see)
5 y
LTC Jason Mackay No sir I do not have it in the ACS system. My bullet points consist mostly from 2011-2014 except one where it states continued volunteer service. I have letterrs from current organization but not from previous. The ones from previous is where I exceed the 500 years but sadly no documentation except a letter from my old platoon sergeant I could probably get if you think that will help. Thanks for you help!
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LTC Jason Mackay
LTC Jason Mackay
5 y
SPC (Join to see) you have to set your BC up for success. Give him something to say yes to
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SPC Cavalry Scout
SPC (Join to see)
5 y
LTC Jason Mackay Good advice sir. Wilco. Thank you.
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1SG Retired
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No, you are not permitted to submit yourself for an award.
AR 600-8-2, 3–4. c. The Army does not allow self-recognition (including spouses or other family members), therefore, a Soldier may not recommend himself or herself for award of a decoration.
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MAJ Byron Oyler
MAJ Byron Oyler
5 y
No but he can ask someone else to do it for him.
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1SG Retired
1SG (Join to see)
5 y
MAJ Byron Oyler
Absolutely, I was responding to his stated question.
I also understand that if one doesn't write the draft for their award recommendation and/or OER/NCOER, they either won't get one (award), or it won't accurately reflect performance.
The other passage that contributed to my posting that response is his stating he "did much volunteer work to exceed the standard for the MOVSM." This easily leads a reasonable person to infer that the purpose of the volunteer work was for personal gain, specifically, award of the MOVSM, which the approving commander is required to consider when contemplating the award. He choose his words, and maybe his intent wasn't to give that appearance, but that was the effect.
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