9 months of the Awards Process...has anyone even heard of this?

2014-02-06T12:43:52-05:00

From the first week on the ground of this deployment, we were told to start preparing end of tour 638's for our Soldiers. Unconventional I would imagine, but the best part has been the ever-changing standards that have extended what should have been a relatively simple process into almost a year long debacle...and don't even get me started on impact awards and badges.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2014 12:47 PM

2014-02-06T12:47:20-05:00

SGT Jaynes - Welcome to combat.

We had to do the same thing for our 2012 deployment. After being there for 2 months our BDE HQs was screaming for shells. The best thing about it is the document can always change. Once you are within 3 months of leaving they do not want any more changes or updates.

The reason for the system is to ensure all awards are approved and processed prior to anyone departing the area.

As my Soldiers accomplished tasks downrange I would pull their award up and make changes. The only issue then is ensuring your additions and the original submission all get merged successfully with the right corrections.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2014 11:43 PM

2014-08-30T23:43:27-04:00

sadly yes. this occurred during my Iraq tour in 2007 when we were told " start preparing your 638's on your men and take whatever you think they should get and cut it in half. Leadership feels that there are just too many awards being given". :/