Are you in favor of losing your infantry "Blue Cord" once you change branches?

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Dec 2013 23:39:27 -0500

When I was a young infantryman, just thinking that I would lose my blue cord once I commissioned in a different branch almost made me give up on the idea.<div><br></div><div>I felt like, the MOS 11b is still in my record I earned It...  </div><div><br></div><div>Other than the common answer: "it is no longer your primary MOS", what you think is the logic of not being able to use a skill identifier like the "Blue Cord" on your Dress Blues once you change MOS?<br></div>

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 23 at 2013 11:42 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Dec 2013 23:42:37 -0500

Honestly Sir there doesn't seem to be any other reason, being former infantry myself I would love for the chance to wear my blue cord again, like you said if you earned something you should be aloud to wear it.

Response by LTC Jason Bartlett made Dec 24 at 2013 12:24 AM

LTC Jason Bartlett — Tue, 24 Dec 2013 00:24:44 -0500

Easy answer wear your EIB/CIB. I am in favor of losing it once you leave the Infantry. The intent of the Blue Cord is to show that your are a serving Infantryman not that you were one. 

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 24 at 2013 5:15 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Dec 2013 05:15:06 -0500

Lts consider other things you lose once your technically not qualified to wear it. You don't get to wear you expert marksmanship badge once you fail. what else is out there that you lose when and under what conditions?

Response by LTC Jason Bartlett made Dec 24 at 2013 9:33 AM

LTC Jason Bartlett — Tue, 24 Dec 2013 09:33:30 -0500

I was a grader in 2000 at Fort Benning, apparently you passed my station ;( I had the easiest station "Challenge and Password"

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Dec 24 at 2013 10:31 AM

SGM Matthew Quick — Tue, 24 Dec 2013 10:31:49 -0500

CPT Montanez,<br><br>In order to grow, we'll inevitably leave things behind.<br><br>A blue cord doesn't make you, it represents what you're serving as.<br><br>I'll admit, I enjoyed wearing the 'Buff Strap' while assigned to The Old Guard in DC and I wanted to continue wearing it, but after selection for the next rank, I had to leave that Buff Strap behind, but the memories remain.<br><br>MAJ Bartlett brought up a good point about the EIB/CIB...but you have 'CPT bars' now; wear them proudly and mentor the next generation of leaders.<br><br>

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 24 at 2013 10:50 AM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Dec 2013 10:50:10 -0500

You earn it for graduating infantry OSUT or IOBC once you change MOS then you are no longer an infantryman and must take the blue cord and disks off. If you earned the CIB or EIB as an infantryman you can continue to wear it on your uniform the remainder of your career. There are many senior infantrymen once selected for a nominative position that lose their blue cords because they lose their MOS of 11Z to become 00Zs.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 24 at 2013 10:50 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Dec 2013 10:50:34 -0500

It was a sad day when I had to remove it from my uniform, but I understand the reasons why. I may possess the skillset of an infantryman, but I am no longer one... I've still got the CIB when I need to walk down memory lane.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 24 at 2013 10:51 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Dec 2013 10:51:40 -0500

It was a rite of passage as an infantryman. It was the final ceremony where you drank the mysterious grog. To me, you earned it. When I switched over to Finance, I was a little upset that I couldn't wear it anymore. I have my CIB and nice scroll to go with it, but the blue cord is still something I earned. I understand losing the blue plates since you no longer where the cross rifles, but never understood why we lose the blue cord. My secondary MOS is 11B still, so doesn't really make since to me.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2014 12:23 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 19 Jan 2014 12:23:52 -0500

<p>Sir, </p><p>I will leave it to my CIB and EIB to prove that I was Infantry. The Blue Cord should remain for those actively serving in the Infantry</p>

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Jan 19 at 2014 12:31 PM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Sun, 19 Jan 2014 12:31:10 -0500

The blue cord is for Infantrymen. If you change branches, you are not an Infantryman. Pretty simple. Remember, the blue cord is a distinguishing device, it is not an award. It was not something you earned (I'm sure you feel otherwise), but simply something you wore to denote your MOS. The Army made an administrative decision to allow you to wear it while in that capacity. They needed grunts, so they created uniform bling as a recruiting incentive. Maybe one day another MOS will need people so badly they'll create a cord for them. But even then, it'll just be an arbitrary MOS handout.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2014 2:35 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 19 Jan 2014 14:35:09 -0500

To Wear the Blue Chord you must be an Infantry Soldier in an Infantry MTOE slot. An Infantry Soldier who is no longer in an Infantry slot is not supposed to wear the Chord.

Much like a Maroon, Tan or Green Beret you earned it but you only wear it while in the unit.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2014 3:16 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 19 Jan 2014 15:16:31 -0500

The cord identifies someone who is in the infantry. All philosophizing aside, anything other than an 11 series slot on the Unit Manning Roster along with an 11 series MOS does not qualify.

On that note, the past may not actively exist but it isn't mutable. While you can't wear it in uniform, you can hang it from the rearview mirror of your car or maintain the old dress uniform to the standard of just before you ceased being officially part of the infantry. What you did is yours and no one can take it away from you.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2014 3:19 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 19 Jan 2014 15:19:57 -0500

While I agree with some of these responses, others seem (I think) miss what you're asking. You're primary MOS being 11B, you should be able to keep the blue chord. Yes, you changed MOSs and moved on to do other things this army has to offer. But that doesn't erase the fact that you fought for life on Sand Hill and earned everything you're given as an infantryman. Including your blue chord. While I know it's job specific, it's still not right because your primary is still 11B. But in the real world you lose it so rock that CIB or EIB.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2014 9:06 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 19 Jan 2014 21:06:22 -0500

I damn sure miss wearing mine. Those cords are not easy to earn and are awarded with reverence. I wish I could still wear it. Then again, I also have the German Marksmanship Badge but can't wear it either because I'm an Officer. It's odd that I can wear the Good Conduct Medal that I earned while Enlisted, but not my Marksmanship Badges.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 4:54 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 20 Jan 2014 16:54:40 -0500

Before any gets crazy (because I'm not infantry), I'm just curious, if Soldiers are allowed to wear the blue cord after they leave the Infantry; what do the Soldiers who have stayed in the Infantry get to wear to continue to distguinish themselves? The crossed rifles, with blue plates? While I'm extremely proud to wear my ordnance bomb, I have yet to see anyone post how important those rifles with blue plates are. I can appriciate the fact Infantrymen earn their blue cord, but to those who spend their entire career in the infantry, what do they get? I'm sure Infantrymen with years of expiernce would have something to say, if a Soldier went through AIT, and a year later left the Infantry but was still allowed to wear the cord. Just my thoughts of course.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 26 at 2014 2:49 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Jun 2014 14:49:13 -0400

The Blue Cord was meant for those currently serving in the infantry. I went from being an Infantryman, enlisted, to an infantry officer and got my cord back. That is where it should be. By the same token should you keep your maroon beret when you leave a airborne unit. These are unit awards. Plus the longer you spend out of the infantry the less proficient you will become. It is a hard truth that we are have to face.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2014 8:28 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Jun 2014 20:28:10 -0400

I don't put as much stock into my Blue Chord as I do my CIB. I don't put as much stock into the CIB as I do my EIB. Anytime I'm wearing my ASU's I'm within my units footprint - the EIB makes me stand out. If I was stationed at a location that had no Infantrymen whatsoever I would sure feel like something special sporting that blue chord, but that's just not the case. I can go anywhere and put my EIB on my chest and stand out from the mass percentage of the crowd. The Blue Chord, Blue Disks, and the Crossed Rifles don't make me feel like an Infantrymen. Dedicating myself to the mastery of this craft and earning an Expert Infantry Badge is what makes me feel deserving of the "Infantrymen" title.

I joined the Army for opportunities. If the next opportunity means more responsibility and tougher challenges without a blue chord on my shoulder, then I will gladly take it off.

Response by SSG Patrick Kinsella made Jul 3 at 2014 2:30 PM

SSG Patrick Kinsella — Thu, 03 Jul 2014 14:30:25 -0400

The blue cord is meant to designate an Infantryman serving in an Infantry position. When you move to another MOS, you have moved off the line, and no longer rate the cord. It is reserved for those guys on the line who are still ready to go into harms way.

Take pride in the choice that you have made, and the position you now hold. If you are not proud of what you are doing, then go back to the line and put your blue cord back on.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Sep 28 at 2014 4:28 AM

SFC Mark Merino — Sun, 28 Sep 2014 04:28:03 -0400

I reclassed with another grunt and we had a "dismount" ceremony between the two of us. Sad moment for sure.

Response by CSM Christopher St. Cyr made Jan 4 at 2015 7:46 PM

CSM Christopher St. Cyr — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 19:46:33 -0500

The crossed cannons came off hard when I sewed on the star between my rockers and chevrons. It is what it is. I didn't think I would ever take off the green tabs either, but the E-8 job I was promoted into required it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2015 5:39 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 17:39:18 -0400

The question that many Soldiers have, to include myself-- is why if a Soldier who attends/graduates Infantry Basic Training and Advance Individual Training is no longer authorized to wear the awarded Blue Cord once they transition/reclassify into a non-infantry MOS?

Example:

I enlisted in the Army and served my first 4-years as an infantryman. Thereafter, I went to Engineer Dive School and successfully reclassified as an OOB/12D "Diver". IAW AR 670-1 I am no longer authorized to wear the Infantry Blue Cord for which I was officially Awarded (I have the awarded document in my OMPF).

Discussion points:

1. Infantry Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training is a lot more rigorous that the non-infantry schools. The Blue Cord in my opinion is earned for the extra effort and the prestige of becoming an infantryman.

2. Reasons why Infantryman reclassify into other non-infantry MOS vary:
a. Medical
b. Career/Professional Progression
c. Other

Once an Infantryman, Always an Infantryman! Regardless of reclassification (primary Vs. secondary MOS), Soldiers that earned the award should be authorized to wear the Infantry Blue Cord because they worked and served hard for it; it distinguishes them from those that have not served as an infantryman.

Since reclassifying, myself and others like me are very proud to have served and earned the right to be called an infantryman. Not all infantryman were able to earn the Expert Infantry Badge (EIB) nor have the opportunity to receive the Combat Infantry Badge (CIB). For example, I was not afforded the opportunity to earn the EIB for the almost four years I served as an infantryman...As a young Soldier I was constantly denied that opportunity because staff duty, guard duty, and police calls were more important. Sadly, I had to take personal leave prior to departing for dive school in order to earn my EIB for which I succeeded the first time. I'm not saying that is always the case, but I'm sure there are other Soldiers that have and are experiencing something similar. Regarding medical reasons, the infantry MOS is not easy--it takes a toll on a person physically.

It's understandable that those active Infantry MOS Soldiers want to hold on to that prestige for themselves...but if they realistically considered those reasons and circumstances that others go through as possible dilemmas that may effect/affect them in the future, then they would be wanting the same.

It would make more sense and serve the Army better by authorizing the wear of the Infantry Blue Cord by those that earned it. How would this serve the Army better? Simple, other non-infantry MOS personnel tend to look down at infantry Soldiers. One example is the stigma about non-infantry MOS personnel-- that Infantry Soldiers aren't intelligent enough to have qualified for other MOS fields! I know, because I have almost 21 years of service where I have stood up defending infantryman. By allowing others like me to wear the Blue Cord, it promotes positive attitudes, and provides examples of Soldiers that excelled and wanted more for themselves, especially with the junior Soldiers and potential recruits.

Personally, I would love to retire wearing the Infantry Blue Cord that I sacrificed to earn and the time spent away from home. The life of an infantryman is not easy--it is one that truly deserves recognition...and this is one way to guarantee it.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Aug 25 at 2015 11:40 AM

SGT Bryon Sergent — Tue, 25 Aug 2015 11:40:12 -0400

CPT Luis Montanez-So here is a new question. It states in worn by whom. if in a PMOS or awarded the CIB or EIB. so If that is the permanent award does that tie the cord to the CIB or EIB award?

Response by CW4 Don Kite made Sep 12 at 2015 5:41 PM

CW4 Don Kite — Sat, 12 Sep 2015 17:41:16 -0400

If you infantry type wish to wear your blue cord then stay in the infantry. If you wish to have something on your uniform to show you were an infantryman then go out and pass the Expert Infantryman Badge and then you will have something they cant take away from you if you change MOS's.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 27 at 2015 4:11 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 Sep 2015 16:11:03 -0400

Officers and Enlisted Soldiers: Who can Wear The Infantry Cord.

1. Those Holding an Infantry PMOS or specialty
2. Those Who have been awarded the CIB or EIB
Or who have completed the basic unit phase of an Army training program or the equivalent
3. Enlisted Soldiers who have completed one station unit training resulting in the award of an infantry PMOS
4. Infantry officers who have graduated from the resident infantry officer basic or advanced course
5. Infantry officers who have graduated from the Infantry Officer Candidate course (during mobilization)
6. Infantry officers and Enlisted Soldiers in the Reserve components who hold an Infantry PMOS or specialty

I hope this helps.

Respectfully,

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2016 6:22 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Mar 2016 18:22:20 -0500

I think that you should always be able to wear it. And remember every soldier is a rifleman in the end, because the enemy doesn't care if you're Infantry, JAG, or a Mechanic. I believe as long as it is a Primary or Secondary MOS, yes. Tertiary or more, NO.

Response by SP5 Michael Caldwell made May 1 at 2016 3:22 PM

SP5 Michael Caldwell — Sun, 01 May 2016 15:22:37 -0400

The Blue Cord is an earned award....just like the Navy Seals earned their trident...if they leave the seals and decide to do something else in the Navy they still get to wear their tridents...

Response by CPT Craig Mathison made Jun 29 at 2016 11:17 AM

CPT Craig Mathison — Wed, 29 Jun 2016 11:17:58 -0400

If I move from an infantry unit to an engineer unit but have not changed my PMOS from 11B can I still wear the blue cord? Meaning I have not been to school to become MOS qualified in the job I am currently doing, therefore my PMOS is still 11B.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2016 11:22 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Jun 2016 11:22:35 -0400

Honestly, I think you should give up the discs (as enlisted) but not the cord. You earned the cord. It should be a permanent part of the uniform. Maybe I'll put a buzz into SMA Dailey's ear. Hahahahaha

Response by LTC Marlen Ramirez made Aug 5 at 2016 11:47 AM

LTC Marlen Ramirez — Fri, 05 Aug 2016 11:47:18 -0400

A SM should retain wear of the blue cord throughout his/her career, regardless of changing MOS/units, if the SM at one time or another in the military completed the 11-series MOS-producing training, or equivalent from other service, and served a minimum of one peace-time or war-time tour in an AD infantry unit, unless properly released earlier, but not less than 1-year unless injured in peace-time or war-time and subsequently released from 11-series, or served in a NG/RC infantry unit for an equivalent increased duration to adjust to the AD tour length requirement. SMs with combined prior 11-series training and service should be recognized for their prior Infantry accomplishment that is not easily displayed on the uniform when SMs transition to another branch of the Army. There is no better way to display without medals a SMs past and/or present Infantry training and service hardship than to allow SMs to continue to wear the Infantry blue cord. Once an Infantryman, always an Infantryman!!! Change the regulation.

Response by PO3 John Keas made Apr 10 at 2017 1:50 PM

PO3 John Keas — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 13:50:30 -0400

This is why the Navy resisted giving up out Ratings. It is who we are. It is our identity. It tells us at a glance who we are. That is what your blue cord and badges do, right?

If that cord denotes your primary MOS, then if you aren't 11b, then you shouldn't wear it. Like if I had cross rated to something other than Gunner's Mate, I couldn't wear my crossed cannons anymore.

It is different, I know, but same idea, really.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2017 2:07 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 14:07:25 -0400

If I became a Quartermaster Officer, you better believe I'd still wear my Aviator Wings. I see no reason to take away the blue chord from former infantrymen.

Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made Aug 9 at 2017 2:42 PM

MSG Dan Castaneda — Wed, 09 Aug 2017 14:42:07 -0400

For me, it was like being sad I was leaving high school but heading to college. In college we no longer wear high school t-shirts.

Response by LCpl Rick Hoffman made Apr 13 at 2018 9:29 PM

LCpl Rick Hoffman — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 21:29:35 -0400

As a Marine serving in 2/5 I was issued the French Fourregere, a unit decoration awarded to the 5th and 6th Marine Regiments for valor in WW1. When you leave the unit you are supposed to turn it back in to supply. I still have mine, as a keepsake. I did not earn it but wearing it reminded me of those who served before me and their sacrifices and actions, as a Fighting Fifth Marine I stood a little taller when wearing it. I feel the Blue Cord is similar, the Army Infantry is a fine fighting force and deserves to be distinguished from other MOS’. Hence, when you leave the infantry, you leave the Blue Cord off your uniform.

Response by PVT Dustin Warren made Apr 15 at 2018 6:04 PM

PVT Dustin Warren — Sun, 15 Apr 2018 18:04:40 -0400

The blue cord is for infantrymen.. period. If your assigned a new mos, then you are no longer infantry. Why would you wear an infantry cord if you are no longer infantry?

Response by SSG Rod Pearcey made Apr 16 at 2018 11:39 AM

SSG Rod Pearcey — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 11:39:17 -0400

Best one to have

Response by SPC Mike Hopkins made Apr 16 at 2018 9:03 PM

SPC Mike Hopkins — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 21:03:00 -0400

The Cords can be purchased at the PX. I was an M.P. And they made a cord for that MOS but it was NOT authorized. As I recall it was green with some gold or yellow woven in. Looked nice but as I said it was not authorized.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Apr 17 at 2018 9:55 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Tue, 17 Apr 2018 09:55:30 -0400

If you aren't a grunt or in a grunt staff position- it's bye, bye.

Response by SGT Terry O'Neal made Apr 19 at 2018 10:23 PM

SGT Terry O'Neal — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 22:23:10 -0400

As a former motor Sgt. I kinda see it the same as the blue disc behind the brass, it just tells everyone that you are presently Infantry, if you are Enlisted and your MOS is changed from my 11B to something else you couldn't wear the blue disc with your new brass, so you shouldn't wear the cord. Like others have said an EIB or CIB tells anyone that you were Infantry at one time or another. Just my 2 cents worth as a former NCO in the 70's and 80's.

Response by SCPO Dan Martin made Apr 20 at 2018 10:42 PM

SCPO Dan Martin — Fri, 20 Apr 2018 22:42:27 -0400

I’m proud of all of you whether you wear the blue cord or not!! Good job soldiers!!

Response by SGT Armando Sanchez made Apr 22 at 2018 5:06 AM

SGT Armando Sanchez — Sun, 22 Apr 2018 05:06:26 -0400

Blue, purple or pink, you know what you were. Big deal!

Response by SP5 William Estay made Apr 23 at 2018 5:17 AM

SP5 William Estay — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 05:17:38 -0400

Hell No...keep the cord...wish the bib was worn to

Response by MSG Chris Clanton made Apr 23 at 2018 4:19 PM

MSG Chris Clanton — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 16:19:15 -0400

You still wear the CIB.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2018 11:12 PM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 23:12:15 -0400

The ability To lose it is another reason why it is so special when you DO have it

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2018 10:40 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Apr 2018 10:40:45 -0400

Stay Infantry then you don't have to worry about it. Who wants to be a POG anyway

Response by CWO2 James Mathews made Apr 25 at 2018 1:07 PM

CWO2 James Mathews — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 13:07:39 -0400

In trying to understand the question and the answers to that question, I need to know what a "blue cord" is and what the requirements are to "qualify" for wearing such. It is difficult for members of other military branches to understand what is going on here without some explanation or translation of you alphabetical references! That is, of course, not everyone is supposed to understand the various concerns of all the services!

Response by SPC Corey Blue made Apr 25 at 2018 3:12 PM

SPC Corey Blue — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 15:12:31 -0400

Branches? No. MOS? Yes. When in rome, do as the romans do. Unless you need to remind them who runs the place.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2018 9:43 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Apr 2018 09:43:19 -0400

I think it should only be worn if you are currently serving as an Infantryman. I switched MOS and it wasn’t a big transition. I have my CIB and everyone knows it’s a permanent award. So is the EIB. If you didn’t earn a EIB/CIB before you transition to another MOS that sucks but it’s neither of those awards are participation trophies not everyone gets one. But you should show pride in your new MOS because not everyone gets the opportunity to reclass. And if you were previously an 11B, you didn’t lose that experience and you are still an infantryman where it counts in your ability to be an infantryman again if called upon and it will show even if you don’t have the fancy uniform decorations.

Response by CSM David Draughn made Apr 30 at 2018 3:53 PM

CSM David Draughn — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 15:53:02 -0400

Such are the rules. I spent my entire career (30 years) in the Infantry. My promotion to CSM removed my cord because of change in MOS. Such is life. That cord is for front-line infantrymen, not rear echelon “wannabes” or has beens. People are jealous of the Infantry but do not want to do the job. Lieutenants should lead from the front, not snivel over something that does not apply to them. Support people now have badges, etc. The blue cord should remain set aside for the true warfighters, not the folks supporting the war fighter.

Response by SSG Fernando Algarin made May 1 at 2018 9:14 AM

SSG Fernando Algarin — Tue, 01 May 2018 09:14:12 -0400

No, I earned it.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made May 1 at 2018 9:21 AM

SGT Dave Tracy — Tue, 01 May 2018 09:21:24 -0400

Old topic, but I'll jump in.

Did I feel a bit of loss when I gave up my Blue Cord to become a Reserve 88M? Sure, but the Cord belongs to the serving Infantryman--which I can always say I was once--so I say leave it for the serving Infantryman.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 1 at 2018 5:10 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 01 May 2018 17:10:49 -0400

Snowflake

Response by LTC Charles Hamilton made May 2 at 2018 7:23 PM

LTC Charles Hamilton — Wed, 02 May 2018 19:23:25 -0400

I hate it. Change the Regulation.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2018 8:50 PM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 03 May 2018 20:50:54 -0400

Sir, I'm 50/50 on the subject. (Yes I feel we earned it, but at the same time when you change mos your not infantry... but the infantry don't leave you)

Response by SP5 Robert Cole made May 4 at 2018 8:23 AM

SP5 Robert Cole — Fri, 04 May 2018 08:23:46 -0400

I was a cook in so many units . I even was a Ft. Stewart GA. When the 24 the was reactivated does that allow me to ware the unit sitation it reseaved in 77

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made May 4 at 2018 1:34 PM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Fri, 04 May 2018 13:34:41 -0400

My thing about blue cords and plastic disks...It is kind of like the little yellow bus of the Army. Do you not know you are infantry that you need walking billboards to say "hey I am a Grunt." I feel it makes it easier to spot the grunts from everyone else so you can round them up for nap time at the local Adult Day Care. Not trying to offend anyone hear, but really looks like those plastic disks came out of the back of Home Depot and could double as chair coasters. The blue cord, what does it symbolize? Hey I am a grunt? Other than that was there a historical precedent like On 1778 at the Battle of Lost in the Ropes, Trooper Martin held off British advance with nothing more than a blue piece of rope used to lead the family milk cow with, that his 90 year old bed bound mother made for him? No. There isn't a real history behind it, instead some general wanted to make you guys feel good in 1952.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made May 4 at 2018 10:22 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Fri, 04 May 2018 22:22:02 -0400

Yes, you either are or are not- if I had gotten hurt bad enough to be re-classed into my secondary (76Y) then bye bye blue. It would have really sucked- but that's the rukes.

Response by SGT Lefty Jennings made May 5 at 2018 4:45 PM

SGT Lefty Jennings — Sat, 05 May 2018 16:45:57 -0400

Yes it was something earned, who would say that, in 1987 while at the end of basic training and completion of graduation at Ft B, we stood in formation and was handed one by one our cords. I have me CIB also but my cord ment as much to me as my father and grand father before me. I don't care if they don't want you to wear if after but no matter what you say I earned mine.

Response by SPC Earl Shaffer made May 5 at 2018 11:05 PM

SPC Earl Shaffer — Sat, 05 May 2018 23:05:00 -0400

I think if 1 mos is allowed to wear it all should be able to

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2018 12:19 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 06 May 2018 12:19:27 -0400

Dress blues just look stupid without a blue chord in my opinion. I worked my ass off to get it so as long as I’m in the army I’m gonna keep it.

Response by SGT Neil Ellis made May 6 at 2018 4:22 PM

SGT Neil Ellis — Sun, 06 May 2018 16:22:23 -0400

Losing mine felt like losing a part of myself. Will never forget the day I turned blue.

Response by CPL Cord Nipper made May 7 at 2018 11:41 AM

CPL Cord Nipper — Mon, 07 May 2018 11:41:11 -0400

I'm reminded of several former AD 11Bs who served as reserve MPs during Desert Storm.
They pushed to be awarded CIBs and couldn't understand why they were denied.
Regs state 11B serving in an 11B position.
Look at the cord like a unit patch or DUI when you change it changes.
EIBs and CIBs prove what you did who you were once.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made May 11 at 2018 2:44 PM

SGT Dave Tracy — Fri, 11 May 2018 14:44:07 -0400

Do I personally feel that the Blue Cord should be kept once earned? Sure.

Do I professionally feel that way? No. Leave it for current Grunts.

Can I square those two diametrically opposed thoughts? Nope.

Response by SFC Raymond Morales made May 12 at 2018 12:26 AM

SFC Raymond Morales — Sat, 12 May 2018 00:26:16 -0400

Well said gentlemen

Response by SP5 Shawn Remrey made May 12 at 2018 2:18 AM

SP5 Shawn Remrey — Sat, 12 May 2018 02:18:47 -0400

No I'm not in favor of losing my cord I earned that right and have a right to wear it in my dress uniform

Response by Chris Berman made May 13 at 2018 3:25 PM

Chris Berman — Sun, 13 May 2018 15:25:01 -0400

You earned it, you keep it

Response by PFC Charles Manis made May 13 at 2018 6:33 PM

PFC Charles Manis — Sun, 13 May 2018 18:33:27 -0400

I’m on both sides of the fence I’d say if you earn it, you should be able to wear it! That being said, you always have your EIB/CIB!

Response by SGT John Manasco made May 13 at 2018 7:56 PM

SGT John Manasco — Sun, 13 May 2018 19:56:05 -0400

At one time, all branches could wear a branch cord. Uniform refs are always changing. Some of those changes are not always for the better.

Response by SPC Mike Lake made May 13 at 2018 9:51 PM

SPC Mike Lake — Sun, 13 May 2018 21:51:07 -0400

EIB/CIB shows u we're infantry tho I think blue cords should go if u leave infantry unit we are blue cord brothers for life...

Response by 1LT Dave Jenkins made May 13 at 2018 11:50 PM

1LT Dave Jenkins — Sun, 13 May 2018 23:50:15 -0400

If you earned the EIB or the CIB then an Infantryman can still wear the infantry cord even if they leave an infantry unit.

Response by SSgt Tj Sheehan made May 14 at 2018 1:37 PM

SSgt Tj Sheehan — Mon, 14 May 2018 13:37:56 -0400

When I changed branches i loat my blue cord it was tough HOWEVER that is an honor reserved for ACTIVE infantryman. Didnt like loaing it however I underatood that I was no longer an ACTIVE infantryman

Response by CSM Mike Taylor made May 15 at 2018 6:03 AM

CSM Mike Taylor — Tue, 15 May 2018 06:03:21 -0400

Agree with all; it’s a hard right over an easy wrong.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made May 15 at 2018 8:48 AM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Tue, 15 May 2018 08:48:41 -0400

I am not infantry but I think once you earned it you should wearing every time you put on your ASUs unless you decide not to.

Response by SSG Dwight Aloma made May 15 at 2018 11:34 AM

SSG Dwight Aloma — Tue, 15 May 2018 11:34:58 -0400

There’s always the option of hanging it off of your vehicles rear view mirror like a douche bag.

Response by PV2 Josh Lundy made May 16 at 2018 3:54 AM

PV2 Josh Lundy — Wed, 16 May 2018 03:54:31 -0400

I didnt become infantry because of a fucking blue chord. Unifrom bling is not incentive to enlist

Response by SPC Tony Pacheco made May 16 at 2018 8:28 AM

SPC Tony Pacheco — Wed, 16 May 2018 08:28:38 -0400

I believe that this is earned and should remain with that soldier in some capacity not all are lucky enough to earn the CIB/EIB.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 3 at 2018 3:33 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 03:33:50 -0400

I love my blue cord. It looks cool and holds all the fond memories I made as an enlisted soldier over the past 13 years. However, in two months when I become a warrant officer (131a) I will take my blue cord off and place it on my “shadow box” enlisted uniform jacket in a vacuum bag with the staff sergeant rank sewn to the sleeves that I am also very proud of as well. My CIB and dd214 can tell the tale for me. The blue cord belongs to those infantrymen in an infantry billet. Not to a staff officer in an SF unit. We make the choice to leave, we make the choice to take it off.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2018 12:51 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Sep 2018 00:51:30 -0400

Response by SFC David Xanten made Jul 31 at 2019 12:20 PM

SFC David Xanten — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 12:20:50 -0400

It's not a Medal and therefore you lose the Privilege of wearing a device that is meant only for active Infantry. If you earned the CIB or the EIB than your peers know you were once one of them.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2019 1:18 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 13:18:43 -0400

In the regs. You change to anything but infrantry you lose the ability to where. Quit complaining.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2019 6:22 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 18:22:01 -0400

It seems pretty straight forward, EIB/CIB are permanent awards. The blue cord and background discs are branch insignias. If you are no longer in the branch and you want to wear your blue cord, put on your rearview mirror.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 1 at 2019 6:06 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 01 Aug 2019 06:06:55 -0400

Before anyone starts saying that infantrymen didnt earn their blue cords, think again. Everything you wear on your uniform is earned. If you think the blue cord should be removed because you you rebranch, then maybe every skill identifier should be removed from wear if you are not actively using that identifier. For example, no more wings on your uniform for someone who just wants to go to school and never serve in an airborne unit. I'm sure everyone would make the argument to keep their wings. Why wear wings if you're not using them? After all, it's already in you ERB/ORB.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 1 at 2019 7:59 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 01 Aug 2019 07:59:23 -0400

Get that EIB before you leave the infantry if you want people to know you ‘used to be hard.’

Response by CPT Robert Holden made Nov 19 at 2019 4:20 PM

CPT Robert Holden — Tue, 19 Nov 2019 16:20:16 -0500

While I only served in one branch I wouldn’t expect to wear any medals from one beach to the other

Response by LTC Gary Earls made Jan 26 at 2020 8:45 PM

LTC Gary Earls — Sun, 26 Jan 2020 20:45:38 -0500

I earned my blue cord in Infantry AIT. When I got to Infantry OCS at Fort Benning in 1967, the senior candidates had me take off all insignia including the blue cord. Never wore it again. I'll probably put one in my display box. Stayed in the Infantry branch until 1983 when the Aviation branch activated. For you Infantry types, you are dependent on the other branches, so a little respect would be nice. :-) One of the things that I disliked was the Infantry soldiers got an Air Medal if they made 25 combat assaults. To get one as an aviator was you had to do twenty five hours of combat assaults.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 13 at 2021 2:55 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 14:55:47 -0500

I'm facing this as I signed up to the reserve this last summer. Not too happy about that. But I understand. It's no longer my mos.