Army Service Ribbon - Should it be discontinued?

2014-05-05T20:04:39-04:00

The Army Service Ribbon (ASR) was established by the Secretary of the Army on 10 April 1981 as announced in Department of the Army General Order 15, dated 10 October 1990. It is awarded to members of the U.S. Army for successful completion of initial entry training.

Enlisted Soldiers will be awarded this ribbon upon successful completion of their initial MOS producing course. For those enlisted Soldiers assigned a MOS based on civilian or other service acquired skills, this ribbon will be awarded on honorable completion of 4 months active service.

Response by SFC Stephen Hester made May 5 at 2014 8:08 PM

2014-05-05T20:08:01-04:00

Keep it. for some Soldiers it's one of the few ribbons they'll get. How many of us have seen WWII, Korea, Vietnam vets sporting an Army Service Ribbon?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 5 at 2014 8:08 PM

2014-05-05T20:08:40-04:00

I say no. It's not broken don't fix it. We have plenty of broken stuff that needs focus.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made May 5 at 2014 8:16 PM

2014-05-05T20:16:39-04:00

Option C, create a device for it for retirees, to signify the conclusion of Army service..

Response by CPT Jacob Swartout made May 5 at 2014 8:27 PM

2014-05-05T20:27:43-04:00

I wouldn't change anything.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 5 at 2014 8:30 PM

2014-05-05T20:30:15-04:00

I feel that we have too many ribbons for just breathing as it is! Ribbons/awards/medals should be earned. Some will say that by serving in the Army you 'earn' the ASR, in my opinion, you earn your uniform by serving! Just my opinion...I would say $.02....but probably not worth that much...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 5 at 2014 9:45 PM

2014-05-05T21:45:39-04:00

Senior soldiers receive MSM's when they PCS, and BSM's when they deploy because of their rank. It's easy for them to say do away with it. Lower enlisted soldiers do not have this luxury. Let's not take something else from them.

Response by SSG Todd Halverson made May 5 at 2014 10:46 PM

2014-05-05T22:46:23-04:00

It does serve a purpose to the Soldiers. It signifies that they have successfully completed their initial training. It is the first ribbon that a Soldier earns and gives them something to put on their dress uniform. Sure as time progresses they earn more ribbons for this that and the other thing. It is still a part of our history.
What really needs to happen is tougher guidelines need to be followed for current awards. It is my humble opinion that some awards have been degraded during deployments when they are based on rank, not by what they actually did.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2014 1:35 AM

2014-05-06T01:35:03-04:00

I think the Corps has the least amount of awards and award them restrictively. You really know that when you get to a joint unit and everybody of lesser grade has a bigger stack then you although you have twice the time in service and experiences. I think there are many awards that can be done without to include training/PME ribbons. A re-evaluation of the criteria for awards should be done as well, these bronze star summary of actions and citations I come across are the same as those I find on LCpl's certificate of commendations.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2014 3:30 AM

2014-05-06T03:30:51-04:00

As much as I agree with not requiring or needing to be recognized for simply doing our job (attending and completing basic) I believe that the morale instilled in earning this first ribbon in the Army is a quick and positive booster to a young Soldier. To some this ribbon means little or nothing, but to others it can be their first ribbon to a long stack in the future. I say keep it not only for the short history but mainly for recognizing those 1% upon their entry.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2014 5:49 AM

2014-05-06T05:49:45-04:00

No...there is nothing wrong with it. I say so because we are way off the days of the DRAFT. This is an all-volunteer military and so if one decides to raise the right hand to the oath voluntarily, then it is only befitting that such a move of dedication and service has to be recognized in some way. I remember I got to my first duty station with the Army service ribbon, the global war on terrorism ribbon and the national defense ribbon and I was super proud of those three during my very first uniform inspection even though my NCOs had stacks of them...I was kind of jealous of their stacks. Now that I have my own 'stack'...10 ribbons, I look back and cherish those three that I brought from AIT. Let's keep it because it doesn't need to be fixed.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made May 6 at 2014 7:51 AM

2014-05-06T07:51:59-04:00

It felt good to have a "bit of cloth" on my Class A's when I arrived at Ft. Carson after I graduated 19E OSUT back in 1987, however I agree with a lot of individuals that I have spoken with over the years that we have too many ribbons for pretty much nothing. We prove that we have earned the right to be Soldiers by successfully completing OSUT/BCT & AIT and that in and of itself should be enough to start your career. I don't see it going away, but honestly, do we really need it?

Response by SGT Ben Keen made May 6 at 2014 8:17 AM

2014-05-06T08:17:23-04:00

Sure you just get it for completing training, and sure you get a GCM after 3 years, but look at like this. Not everyone makes it through Basic and AIT. Those that do, have not only earned the title of Soldier but have demonstrated the drive to push themselves. I say keep it, it's a part of our history and honestly, there are a lot more important things the military needs to worry about.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2014 9:31 AM

2014-05-06T09:31:49-04:00

I would have it change. I have seen Soldiers graduate basic and AIT who cannot pass an APFT or ht/wt. I do not know how it suddenly became acceptable to not enforce standards at the start. How does that teach Soldiers standards if they refuse to enforce them at the start? It is an uphill battle particuarly for the Reserves and National Guard as we only see them once a month. How am I to ensure that they suddenly meet the standards that were lower at the entry level? Either enforce the standards there or only award the ASR to those who actually pass everything at basic and AIT.

Response by SSgt Gregory Guina made May 6 at 2014 10:50 AM

2014-05-06T10:50:46-04:00

Seems a bit rendundant in my mind. Wouldn't the uniform serve the purpose.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made May 6 at 2014 10:55 AM

2014-05-06T10:55:18-04:00

I would vote to keep it....as a cross-over (Army to Air Force), it is the few "gimme" ribbons that help people understand that I was in the Army before I was in the Air Force. Ribbons tell a story...sometimes I DO feel that they are handed out to easily, but the Army Service Ribbon and NCO Development ribbon on my rack clearly tells AF members that I am a prior Army NCO without me having to mention it (if I have to say it, it won't be told...if they are savy enough to read the ribbons, they will know the story and may ask questions that are based on the story, which is a much better conversation!).

Response by SGT James Elphick made May 6 at 2014 11:14 AM

2014-05-06T11:14:58-04:00

I voted to do away with it but I was wondering if it could be combined with the NDSM. That is, you are awarded one for peace time service and one for war time service. So for me I would only have the NDSM instead of both. When the wars draw down here in a year or 2 those soldiers that would only have the NDSM after serving 10+ years during war time would be awarded the ASR for peace time service. Just a thought.

Response by SFC Craig Hahn made May 6 at 2014 11:56 AM

2014-05-06T11:56:20-04:00

We as the Army have already given up to much history and tradition already with the change of dress uniforms and everything else..

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2014 1:31 PM

2014-05-06T13:31:48-04:00

I've always figured it was a ribbon (Some Color) military academy cadets could wear while they had a chance to leave campus for a few hours. Not important, no purpose. Awards in general do not have the significance they once had. Unless one is awarded a LOM or Silver Star or higher, no one gives a service member a second look. Soldiers are not defined by the awards they wear, they are defined by the things they have accomplished, and the people (civilians and other Soldiers) they have helped along the way.

Response by SGT Chris Hill made May 6 at 2014 3:29 PM

2014-05-06T15:29:47-04:00

Keep it for sure. There are a lot of good points and opinions which caused me to think about my response for a short time but my opinion is this- wearing a uniform is earned by enlisting because it's our uniform and I'm proud to wear mine too. Once we graduate BCT and then AIT, we earn addiction all ribbons because the big army felt it was appropriate to award those who enlisted and completed training. I have seen many not make it through BCT, so for those that did, it's a simple but effective ribbon that we are awarded to be that 1% of the U.S. Although it has no other purpose than to be a ribbon on your chest, it neither hurts anyone, nor adds any incentives (such as promotion points).

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2014 3:52 PM

2014-05-06T15:52:08-04:00

I voted to keep it. It's been around for over 30 years and many moons ago, someone with a lot of rank on their chest decided to add the ASR, OSR and NCO Ribbon. From my understanding they were added to fluff up Soldiers racks because in the years after Vietnam they got a little thin.

Well those days will be coming again. 10 years after the wars draw down, Soldiers after 3-4 years in will have a vastly smaller rack then they do today. After the wars draw down, sooner or later the NDSM and the GWTSM will go away, and not be awarded anymore. I remember in 2000 I had some real high speed senior leaders, fine NCOs near retirement. How many ribbons did they have? 8 total, (MSM/ARCOM/AAM/GCM/NDSM/NCO/ASR/OSR). Through no fault of their own their racks, were the same size as your average SPC today with one ARCOM and one deployment. There will be a time where it will revert back to that standard. 10-15 years from now.

Yes Soldiers today are stacked very high. Don't blame the Soldier when the force gets a NDSM and GWTSM right off the bat, then 2-3 more medals right after one deployment to Afgahistan.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2014 12:21 AM

2014-05-07T00:21:25-04:00

I believe in Hal Moore's theory that only first place trophies should be awarded or accepted. To me the 'Thanks for coming' ribbon is nothing but a shameless attempt at giving a participation trophy.

The title of soldier and the branch insignia earned upon completion of AIT/OSUT are enough positive reinforcement.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2014 2:23 PM

2014-05-07T14:23:36-04:00

My opinion as the wee E4 I am, we need to stop focusing on changing all these things. AR 670-1, awards, the list goes on. Can we not focus on sustaining what we already have and bettering it before we start troubling ourselves with completely new change?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2014 4:41 PM

2014-05-07T16:41:08-04:00

You ask to keep it to preserve history. That is something the Army struggles with in my opinion. Do Soldiers know why that ribbons is there besides a piece of cloth? Enforce the standards of what graduating from AIT is and teach them the time honored tradition for each MOS.

Response by SFC Dave Mccain made May 7 at 2014 4:49 PM

2014-05-07T16:49:46-04:00

A common misconception is that awards are for you. They in all practices have very little permanent impact on your personal reflection other than devices or awards given for sincere acts of heroism. When is the last time you looked with genuine appreciation at that AAM you got for whatever reason? Not often at all, I would argue.
They are more importantly for your children, your grand children. When your grandchild opens up that chest you always kept locked in your closet (much like my grandfather did) the awards tell a story about you that they would not know. I never would have known about my grandfather's silver star, nor details about his service without his awards and the documentation that goes with them (as he passed before he could tell me). So keep the service ribbon, it tells a part of the tale. It paints a piece of the picture that is your legacy.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2014 11:31 AM

2014-05-13T11:31:11-04:00

I'm in the coast guard and we don't get this ribbon so what's it matter

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made May 13 at 2014 7:47 PM

2014-05-13T19:47:38-04:00

LT's need something to put on their uniform. I went to some functions prior to OBC and our motor sgt would make a ribbon collection to pin something on me so I didn't look out of place :-)

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2014 8:05 PM

2014-05-25T20:05:49-04:00

As a consequence of petty changes we are further diminishing what was gained and this includes all services. Ironically too on or about Memorial Day,

Response by SSG Mark Ives made May 25 at 2014 10:48 PM

2014-05-25T22:48:34-04:00

It took me 3 years to get a ribbon on my uniform after I enlisted and it was the Good Conduct Medal. I thought if you were wearing the uniform, that's you'd accomplished something, that a ribbon wasn't necessary.

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made May 26 at 2014 7:34 AM

2014-05-26T07:34:05-04:00

Someone wearing the uniform tells me they graduated AIT/BOLC, so the Juicy Fruit belabors the obvious. Lose it.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2014 7:55 AM

2014-05-26T07:55:50-04:00

Is the uniform in itself not recognition enough for serving?

Response by CPL Charles Gale made May 26 at 2014 8:15 AM

2014-05-26T08:15:13-04:00

With all due respect the Army Service Ribbon is to show that one has served in the Army. This is more for people that have served with multiple branches.

Response by SFC Arthur Barker made May 26 at 2014 4:27 PM

2014-05-26T16:27:18-04:00

Well, I wouldn't say the ASR serves no purpose: after all, it shows that you have completed US Army Initial Entry Training. I do believe that the basis of its award criteria is too variable, essentially making the award criteria uneven across the board. If one attends certain forms of OSUT, one might earn the ASR in three months. If one attends certain BCT and follow-on MOS training combinations, one might not earn the ASR for upwards of a year or more. The basis for the award criteria background should be more evenly applicable across the Army for continued use.

Regardless, I believe there are several medals and ribbons that fall into the same general category of recognition for just drawing breath in the military. Chief among the offenders for the Army are the ASR and the NDSM. At least the Overseas Service Ribbon requires you to leave the comfort of big American 24-hour super stores and serve the interests of the US overseas (maybe Hawaii and certain parts of Alaska should be exempt from that ribbon.

The GWOT Service Medal has also been perverted from its original intent. It was originally intended to recognize those individuals that had supported CONUS counter-terrorism/force protection operations like NOBLE EAGLE. Then Big Army said every Soldier on active duty had earned the GWOT-SM simply by being on active duty. Even now the requirement is to serve 30 days on active duty at one's first duty assignment. Ideally one should be supporting CT/FP somehow, but seriously, it's a rare commander that would deny this recognition, at least from the Army side.

I won't speak to the other services because some of them recognize with ribbons what we would recognize with badges. There is a divergence there which other service members fail to see sometimes.

Last point: I've had a chance in the recent past to work with some guys from the UK, and all the US uniformed branches give awards away when compared with the British. I worked with one 22-year member of the RAF who had six medals, which made him something of a big deal in the RAF. I told him that an average American Soldier (1O-level) in their first three years in service with one tour in Afghanistan would have six ribbons (EOT Award, GCM, NDSM, ACM, GWOT-SM, NATO Medal--not including the OSR and ASR) and he almost choked on his tongue. The Danes were the same way. Point is, I guess there has to be some reasonable middle ground in there somewhere.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2014 8:43 AM

2014-05-27T08:43:08-04:00

I Think rather than discontinue it entirely, Making something like specific ribbons for the base you attended basic training. To me its a pride thing. I came from Fort Sill, OK and they definitely taught me well. Im sure people from benning would argue saying that there ribbon is better... So on and so forth

Response by SGM Mike Bachini made May 27 at 2014 11:38 AM

2014-05-27T11:38:11-04:00

The army service ribbon is just that, a ribbon, an accoutrement that shows you have or had "army service". It's on par in my opinion with the national defense
Medal and global war on terror ribbons. Yes they are given to you pretty much for breathing deeply and completion of training that fully "qualifies" you as a Soldier. The only downside to having them is the 1.25 per ribbon everyone has to spend to buy them and the 4 bucks for the ribbon rack. (Go max out your DPP at AAFES private!). I would submit that it is better you have that ribbon than nothing. It's been over twenty years and the Cold War vets still want their ribbon for having served, more power to them and I hope they get it. Speaking of giant racks of ribbons, the ones that perhaps should be in question for deletion maybe should be the ones that only general officers can wear, last count I believe there are at least 5 or 6 ribbons that only BG and up are even in a position to earn. What is better, a ribbon given to PVT snuffy who just graduated AIT? Or the ribbon GEN blowhard earned for being in charge of AAFES?

What ever happens to the submission of the twenty year ribbon? I think that would close out and tie into the asr ribbon very well.

As far as campaign ribbons, deployment and pcs awards go, hand em out like candy I say. At least you went, you ate the same dust as I did, which set you apart from most of the population and makes you my brother...

Response by SGT Alfred Cox made May 28 at 2014 12:51 AM

2014-05-28T00:51:56-04:00

No to discontinue the ribbon is to just discontinue the army and its morale

Response by COL Ron Long made Jul 20 at 2014 12:52 AM

2014-07-20T00:52:42-04:00

The ASR served a purpose at the time it was introduced in the early 80s. But now it is nothing more than I survived basic training/AIT/OUST and really serves no purpose.

We have become a society where we have to recognize all participants the same as the "first place winner" which I vehemently disagree. As a Battalion Commander and Battalion Executive Officer, I witnessed first hand Soldiers arriving to those units partially trained, overweight and unable to pass the AFPT. Yet they were "awarded" a ribbon for completing the course.

Given the numerous awards being presented for service today, there is no longer a need for for this "award". Once we revert to a truly Peace time Army, the ASR may be reinstated so the peacetime Soldiers can feel as relevant as the wartime Soldiers.

Response by CW2 Jonathan Kantor made Sep 9 at 2014 5:19 AM

2014-09-09T05:19:39-04:00

I don't think it serves any meaningful purpose, and is not necessary. That being said, there isn't really a reason to stop using it. Removing the ribbon would actually incur a cost to the government, and I don't think we should add any unnecessary spending to the budget... anymore than we already do.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Sep 17 at 2014 3:29 PM

2014-09-17T15:29:51-04:00

OPTION C: Keep it, and create a device for retirees..

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Sep 18 at 2014 1:52 AM

2014-09-18T01:52:39-04:00

I think it has outlived its usefulness. Maybe it can be awarded if someone changes branches so we can show off the rainbow.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2014 2:35 AM

2014-09-18T02:35:02-04:00

I don't see why it matters one way or another, I think that soldiers want it to have something on their chest, but at the end of the day it does nothing for you. People look at the ASR, GWOTSM, and the NDSM, and see a rainbow, then you add in the NCOPD and maybe a KDSM, and the rainbow just got a little more green. There are so many ribbons that the Army gives out to signify that you have accomplished something in the Army, why lower morale and remove them? I had soldiers who got out of the Army with between 3-6 ribbons, because they hadn't done anything. I like having all of my ribbons, and we have worked to earn them all. Even if the earning process was "just" graduating from BCT/AIT. The vast majority of Americans cannot/will not ever complete either of those tasks, so it is something to show, "Yes, I have done something above and beyond."

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Sep 18 at 2014 6:46 AM

2014-09-18T06:46:03-04:00

The Army basically gives out a ribbon for being trained in an MOS? Shouldn't that be a given?

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2014 6:55 AM

2014-09-18T06:55:50-04:00

It's a one-time award meant to distinguish those who actually completed training for service from those who didn't. Given how many people enter service but -- for some reason or another -- don't make it through**, I think it's worth keeping.

I do prefer to call it the "My recruiter lied to me" ribbon, though.

**= Since people could leave for so many reasons, such as medical, I refuse to automatically assert the slightly derogatory term that they "washed out."

Response by SPC C Higgins made Feb 3 at 2015 12:16 PM

2015-02-03T12:16:32-05:00

Gee I served in the Army,or did I,vietnam in 66-67,but I guess I wasn't in since in don't have the Army service ribbon or overseas ribbon, so I was not overseas. If they are going to keep these ribbons then retro them back to WWII, so we can all prove we finished AIT and were across the ocean

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 17 at 2015 11:42 PM

2015-03-17T23:42:04-04:00

We have too many ribbons... it serves no purpose. Soon we will be the Air Force. The Armed Forces Service Medal needs to go too... (Engaging in "significant activity" for which no other campaign or service medal is authorized)...

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2015 11:56 PM

2015-03-17T23:56:20-04:00

Keep it, but not because it preserves history...as I am reminded as we celebrate the birth of the soldier that has become CSM Private RallyPoint Member , those of us that started as Privates or junior enlisted, especially in the 80's and 90's only had that one, multi-colored piece of cloth on our ill-fitting uniform. I flew home from basic with only the service ribbon. We all played it down when we were at the Atlanta airport, and my dad could have laughed because of what he wore on his chest, but no one did. Its had symbolism, that I completed the first step of being a soldier. I was in the Army.

Plenty of great historical quotes from some accomplished leaders on the effect of ribbons/medals on morale. Most don't cost us anything; not much harm in keeping it and plenty of enjoyment seeing a new graduate walking around proudly with our least favorite ribbon.

Sometimes it's all about perspective.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2015 9:56 AM

2015-03-18T09:56:53-04:00

I say keep it, until you attend NCOPD, the replace it with that one. That way it's a nice visual reminder where everyone is at.
Maybe I'm a product of time I was in, but, barring a bronze star or higher award, the bottom of the stack was the most interesting to me. You could generally outline someone's career with those ribbons.
My other option (jokingly) would be to assign it to MOS qualifications. Plenty of soldiers re-class, make a device reminiscent of your old MOS and slap it on. Used to be a tanker? Mini tank. Infantry? Mini rifle. Supply? Mini hand receipt. Intel? Mini magic eight ball.
Problem solved, ribbon now relevant.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2015 11:53 AM

2015-03-18T11:53:02-04:00

Keep it. Its not hurting anyone.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2015 11:34 AM

2015-03-20T11:34:02-04:00

I just can't see the point of a ribbon that shows that I'm qualified to be a soldier. My uniform portrays that already. Yes I know there are reservists that go to drills but haven't completed IET. I was one of them at one point, but I don't think we need a ribbon to differentiate us from the private that is waiting to go to basic training.

I think pointless awards cheapen the awards system. We don't need ribbons and badges for everything under the sun to look cooler in uniform. Just like I don't think we should be handing out other awards based on rank rather than accomplishments, but that's the start of a whole other rant.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Mar 20 at 2015 5:45 PM

2015-03-20T17:45:58-04:00

We get the NDSM during periods of war, which have been many in the last 30 years. Those serving after 911 got the GWOTSM, so they got two for showing up. Army, AF and CG all have basic ribbons of some sort (I think CG's is for honor grads, so at least it's a little more than just showing up). But, that makes three, or a full row, just for being in. It is a little wacky.

I retired with 4+ rows, with no combat deployments... as you can see, I look like a real "war hero..."

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2015 5:56 PM

2015-03-20T17:56:33-04:00

After reading a majority of the responses, one thing continuously mentioned is the repetition of NCOES, check the block ribbons. If the Army insists on having them, then why not change it just a bit to something like what is done with other "multiple" ribbons like OSR or AGCM?

My suggestion is find a middle ground, continue to acknowledge them by keeping the ASR, getting rid of the rest, and adding a knot for each successfully completed professional development related milestone. Maybe this is too simple of a solution and I'm missing the bigger picture, but to me at least, it makes more sense than just adding more meaningless ribbons.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 12:58 PM

2015-03-26T12:58:37-04:00

Gives the new soldiers a sense of accomplishment, IET is not as honorable as a deployment by any means but deserves some sort of recognition and award. Without the ASR any new soldier would have an empty asu.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Mar 26 at 2015 2:00 PM

2015-03-26T14:00:39-04:00

For what it is worth, here are my awards as displayed on my DD214. Although I will tell you my biggest awards were never displayed on my chest. My biggest awards include raising two amazing little people and leading Soldiers into and out of combat and seeing them all walk off the airplane.

Response by SSG Steven Borders made Mar 26 at 2015 2:10 PM

2015-03-26T14:10:01-04:00

SGM I think it should be discontinued and maybe replaced with an award related to the successful completion of their respected MOS.

It would be no different then you receiving an award for an NCO's school like WLC. Just my two cents.

Response by Sgt Joshua Anderson made Mar 26 at 2015 3:24 PM

2015-03-26T15:24:34-04:00

I don't see any reason to get an award for completing basic training or a school house. In the Marine Corps we get the National Defense Ribbon/Medal for joining during a time of war. Even that should be going away soon if we stay at "peace". Of course if we get in to a mess again it'll stay around. As for our schooling, we get a certificate of completion and an official MOS... and a pat on the back. I think that's all it SHOULD be. Get awards because they show recognition for what you've done or gone through, not as a 'gimmie' because you completed a course or tossed a grenade or something ridiculous like that.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2015 1:23 AM

2015-03-28T01:23:49-04:00

It is the anchor point of the ribbon rack and helps us know a faker on sight.

Actually, the ribbon is a thank for you service in the Army. One's willingness to serve is a sacred act.

Response by LTC Gail Daras made Apr 1 at 2015 3:05 PM

2015-04-01T15:05:05-04:00

I pulled out my awards and OER book and the first award after the ASR I received was an ARCOM for the entire period I served at the 7th Infantry Division (L) from July 89 - July 93 as a 2LT and 1LT. For whatever reason I never received an AAM in the Army after 20 years. So that lonely ASR was all I had for my military photo for boards for promotion to captain. Officers do not receive the good conduct medal. I wear that service ribbon proudly with the rest of my awards which now include 5 MSMs, 1 JSCM, 1 JSAM, and many others. My favorite award is my UN medal because it has the colors of the mission I served in, MINURSO in Western Sahara, Africa. I haven't run into anyone who has that medal.

Response by SGT Leon Brimm made Apr 1 at 2015 3:21 PM

2015-04-01T15:21:42-04:00

Just to the point, I think we should keep it because when I went through OSUT for 19D at Knox we had people fail, get recycled, hurt, or just beg to be released. I think during the process of boot camp we lost at least a dozen guys to the reason I stated above and it seemed like we went from 2 platoons to one in the end of the cycle due to reasons stated. So yeah, I think the school is worth the ribbon its the 1st real accomplishment of a soldiers career. I can promise we all remember boot camp, so it must have meant something.

Response by SFC Kenneth Hunnell made Jun 2 at 2015 9:10 PM

2015-06-02T21:10:05-04:00

I believe it was created to give a new look to the uniform for new Soldiers just getting into the Service. Another Ribbon to keep straight on the uniform

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2015 9:39 PM

2015-06-02T21:39:49-04:00

Napoleon is quoted as saying something like, "give me enough ribbon and I can lead this Army to victory."

The ASR is the first recognition awarded to every soldier and establishes an expectation that soldiers will be recognize for their accomplishments. Granted, the fact that everyone gets one is odd but that isn't the point. It enables soldiers to have something to wear appropriately, IAW the regulations.

If we were to change the regulation, we could award the ASR to enlisted only (like the Good Conduct Medal). Over time, officers with an ASR, would be recognized as former enlisted in the same manner as officers with the NCO development ribbon are recognized. Officers don't/shouldn't need the recognition for graduating. So, no need to award it to them.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2015 9:54 PM

2015-06-02T21:54:17-04:00

If there is to be an accomplishment ribbon, there should be one for all branches.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2015 2:57 PM

2015-06-03T14:57:39-04:00

The ribbon lacks any significant value and we don't really need it to indicate anything. If anything the branch insignia indicates as much and more since it also gives someone the idea of what you do in the service.

A long time ago I had to give a class on an something that tell others about yourself. While others chose a football, a quilt they made, or similar item I chose my Class A jacket as it truly does tell others about me at least in what I have done in the military. It shows how long I have served, where I am serving, how well i shoot or throw grenades, and each ribbon has a story behind it. There was little I could say about that ribbon though. Keep what is significant, but do away with meaningless.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2015 4:47 PM

2015-06-03T16:47:27-04:00

Usually, before a new award is made there is some premise behind its development. There was some write ups about the GWOT-SM, GWOT-EM, KDSM and even the not approved UAV ribbon. What was the reasoning for the ASR? Perhaps because they knew the NDSM had a time limit and didn't want to have bare chests?

Perhaps there is more to it. I'll check around but if someone knows, please post. The design seems to be based upon Kumbaya (represents all the branches) and smells like a beret.

Response by SSG Thomas Brousseau made Jun 4 at 2015 12:40 PM

2015-06-04T12:40:35-04:00

I say keep it. That hard working junior enlisted Soldier wants ribbons on his uniform too.

Response by SSgt Everett Jones made Jun 17 at 2015 5:05 PM

2015-06-17T17:05:52-04:00

Having the ASR showed everyone that I have served in more than one branch of service, and keeps me from having to answer all sorts of stupid questions about why I also have Army awards on my uniform. As they say, your rack tells a story, if you switch branches, it tells others that you have done something other than what you are currently doing.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2015 3:58 PM

2015-10-01T15:58:22-04:00

I always thought it was just a silly addition to give 1SGs and CSMs something to bitch about in inspections of new soldiers.

Response by SFC Stephen Hester made Sep 16 at 2016 11:03 AM

2016-09-16T11:03:10-04:00

I'd can it for the reasons already stated.

Response by CW4 Scott Hyde made May 5 at 2017 10:43 PM

2017-05-05T22:43:11-04:00

I love it when old guys want to stop something. I got mine, now these little punks come in and get a trophy for going to chow. We must get rid of the ASR! We must have better things to discuss.

Response by SSG Mark Tsunokai made Dec 28 at 2017 11:47 AM

2017-12-28T11:47:15-05:00

Keep it. Completion of BT/AIT for me was a kick in the nuts at Benning in 1985. The six years of Active duty and fourteen years of Guard/ Reserves and three deployments to The Middle East were easy.

Response by SGT Mathew Husen made Dec 28 at 2017 12:01 PM

2017-12-28T12:01:10-05:00

Keep the Army Service ribbon; it actually symbolizes something. Get rid of the good Conduct medal.All that is, is just a "I been a good boy award."

Response by SGT Christopher Vicchitto made Dec 28 at 2017 3:23 PM

2017-12-28T15:23:04-05:00

I honestly think it should stay but that is only my humble opinion. I have seen soldiers in the army that only had a total of 3 ribbons on their dress uniforms and it had nothing to do with bad performance. By the same token I have seen naval enlisted with 2 and a half rows of ribbons in less then 6 years of service. If you're going to trim down the Army awards then I believe you should trim down ALL the branches down to the same standard.

Response by SSG Edward Joy made Dec 28 at 2017 5:18 PM

2017-12-28T17:18:01-05:00

As previously stated the ribbon was issued because the war in Viet Nam had ended and the NDSM was no longer being awarded, the average soldier may not have had any ribbons to show for three or more years of service. The regulation should be changed to issue the NDSM in lieu of the Army service ribbon.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2017 5:38 PM

2017-12-28T17:38:25-05:00

There should not be a ribbon for anything that can be otherwise be noted. You are already working in your MOS, so it is obvious that you passed the course, you are wearing the rank of SSG, so there isn't any reason to have an NCOES award. National defense? Make it an after service award, so you can wear it at parades when you get old. Good Conduct? I kind of like the Navy version, where your rank changes color to denote 12 years of such.

Response by James Adair made Dec 28 at 2017 6:26 PM

2017-12-28T18:26:14-05:00

As long as their duties are performed Honorably and consistently so. i believe that it should be maintained

Response by LTC Russ Smith made Dec 28 at 2017 7:25 PM

2017-12-28T19:25:18-05:00

Drop the Army's ASR, OSR, NCOPDR, Sea Service, and GWOTSM. These ribbons came about after Vietnam and prior to 9/11. Senior NCOs and Field grade officers with over ten years on service had no ribbons or just the Good Conduct. These ribbons are like a trophy for showing up.

Response by SGT Eric Knutson made Dec 29 at 2017 9:41 AM

2017-12-29T09:41:04-05:00

My take is that if it is only awarded for your first MOS, then drop it, but for those of us who have earned multiple MOS's can put a numeric designating how many AIT's or OJT'd for a year or more, then it would mean something more. So I can go either way with that one, But as only indicating the initial training itself, toss it.

Response by SSgt Thomas Hirschey made Dec 30 at 2017 4:13 PM

2017-12-30T16:13:31-05:00

Seems stupid to me, wearing of the uniform already shows you made it.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Dec 30 at 2017 4:42 PM

2017-12-30T16:42:12-05:00

I know this going to offend some people but the Army uniform is akin to walking Christmas tree. Get rid of the ribbon, once you complete basic & AIT you wear your branch insignia. Get rid of that ribbon, service ribbons in general should go away or become real medals. Some other clown like devices need to go, i.e. green tabs (a piece of felt to signify your a leader...really), regimental crests (unless of course you are in actual regiment, then drop unit crests), drop the unit crest as well, plastics discs, cords and ropes and other dangling looking Para cord looking devices...good God, you don't know your Infantry, you need to be decorated with cheap Walmart looking plastic devices? Epaulette's, should go as well. Black Beret for everyone, send immediately to the trash can of bad ideas. Bringing back the pink and greens, thank God the Army has Sergeant Major who wants to get rid of some of the bad ideas and replace it with what looks good, instills pride, instead of looking like Michael Jackson circa late 1980's.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Dec 30 at 2017 4:44 PM

2017-12-30T16:44:45-05:00

On a separate note in my quest to see the Army de-junkify the Dress/Service Uniform, someone tell me how the ASU looks better than pink and greens? Even phot shop can't fix how they look in the DA Photo.

Response by PFC Miles Hicks made Jan 17 at 2018 7:27 PM

2018-01-17T19:27:42-05:00

Honestly, we were in formation before being dismissed to go to our next duty station/leave/fort home, the platoon sergeants just handed them to us and said "here". I didn't even know what it was for untiI looked it up. When we graduated basic we never received our NDSMs. We bought them later. Someone must have forgot:/

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Jan 17 at 2018 7:32 PM

2018-01-17T19:32:21-05:00

We didn't have those in my Army, POS

Response by 1SG Cj Grisham made Apr 22 at 2018 5:01 PM

2018-04-22T17:01:02-04:00

Most useless ribbon ever. It's basically a participation ribbon for soldiers.

Response by LTC John Mohor made Apr 22 at 2018 7:14 PM

2018-04-22T19:14:21-04:00

If we take it away then the NCO Proffessional Development, Overseas Service Ribbon and a number of the other 80s ribbons medals could be put aside as well. I like the fact it's a form of continuing the old army traditions back to WWI. Notice it's rainbow coloration, it's just like the WWI Victory and WWII Victory Medals. I say keep it!

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Apr 22 at 2018 9:32 PM

2018-04-22T21:32:22-04:00

I don't know why the Services came up with these participation ribbons in the 1980s. The Air Force has the Air Force Training Ribbon with requirements similar to the ASR. I "earned" the Air Force Training ribbon for completion of C-130 advanced pilot course in 1980 (second time through the same course, but that's another story). All of the Services should get rid of participation ribbons. Other Air Force participation ribbons include the long overseas tour ribbon, short overseas tour ribbon, combat readiness medal, outstanding airman of the year, Air Force recognition ribbon, outstanding volunteer service medal, nuclear deterrence service medal, Air Force special duty ribbon, Air Force NCO PME grad ribbon, and Air Force basic training honor grad. We got along without these ribbons and medals in the 1970s and 1980s. I don't know where we went wrong, but we have way too many ribbons. It's easy to provide recognition to folks who do well in training by allowing them to earn an achievement medal. Outstanding Airman of the Year--how about an Air Force Commendation Medal? We have enough medals and ribbons to cover our needs without participation ribbons for all.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Apr 22 at 2018 9:38 PM

2018-04-22T21:38:32-04:00

Why, GWOT will not be around forever, I hope., That will eliminate the NDSM again and the GWOT- so it will probably be the only ribbon for a kid to have after finishing OSUT.

Response by SGT Brian Lorkowski made Jun 2 at 2018 10:11 PM

2018-06-02T22:11:24-04:00

If you fit the criteria then it has a purpose.

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made Jun 2 at 2018 10:18 PM

2018-06-02T22:18:49-04:00

Nope...

Response by SGT Eric Knutson made Jun 3 at 2018 5:02 PM

2018-06-03T17:02:20-04:00

I never liked it when I was in myself, felt like a participation trophy as is was / is issued. now if they would put some device on it for multiple MOS Qual (school or OJT rated) THEN I would endorse keeping it. I say that knowing there were and are many like myself who have "earned" it more than once and it would serve to show others that you are more than a one trick pony.

Response by SGM Mike Bachini made Jun 4 at 2018 1:22 PM

2018-06-04T13:22:33-04:00

I never have understood why soldiers do not like any ribbon that everyone else has. Perhaps it is part of the belief that everyone is special and unique despite being in an organization that demands some facets of uniformity. Th army service ribbon cane out in a time when the army struggled, truly struggled to keep soldiers in. The days of retention being one of the most important duties of a senior leader are long gone now with the money they throw at servicemembers now. Keep the ribbon, it hurts no one to have it. If you are that broke, I will pay the 1.05 for you to buy it.

Response by SSG Dave Rogers made Jun 4 at 2018 7:29 PM

2018-06-04T19:29:28-04:00

Well it was started after Vietnam for those that did not qualify for the NDSM, but also those that only did a 3 year tour. It also serves another purpose that is not discussed here. As it states the ribbon is when you successfully complete your army MOS training. Soldiers that transfer from another branch are not awarded the ribbon unless they complete MOS training if required, but also soldiers who are on split enlistment do not receive it until they finish MOS training. It may seem like a useless medal, but it was established for a reason.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 5 at 2018 11:50 AM

2018-06-05T11:50:16-04:00

I would have to disagree with getting rid of the ribbon. Soldiers earned it and it is a mark of distinction between having taken an oath and becoming a soldier and no longer being a civilian. I realize the uniform does the same thing, but like Napoleon said, “it is amazing ehat a man will do for a piece of useless ribbon.” Let the guys have their ribbons.

Response by SGT Evans Justin made Jun 5 at 2018 12:13 PM

2018-06-05T12:13:16-04:00

I did not read all 257 comments so if this has already been said you may disregard. I am not advocating against them, but if folks are wanting to get rid of "gimme" awards then should they be wanting to get rid of ETS awards as well? Again I am not saying we should but, if people are saying the ASR is meaningless then ETS awards are too. I did far more to earn my ASR than I did to earn my ARCOM.

Response by SPC Rocky Garcia made Jun 6 at 2018 6:20 AM

2018-06-06T06:20:29-04:00

I served 4 years active duty and >10 years in the active Reserves. I’ve seen people get awards that weren’t “deserved” or “earned” and I’ve seen soldiers whom have deserved medals or awards that never received them. It’s not mine to decide whom receives or mine to decide who is denied but it’s Awarded and I’ll wear it, with Pride...

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2018 12:06 AM

2018-08-25T00:06:16-04:00

I joined the Army in 1973, at the tail end of Vietnam and stayed on active duty until 1984. I recall many service members who did their 3-4 years during that time and ETS'ed with nothing more than a blue cord, NDSM, GCMD, and a marksman's badge (after 1974, they didn't even have the NDSM). I don't recall anyone ever receiving an Army Commendation Medal or above in any unit I was in. In 1981, there were a number of changes made. The AAM, Overseas medal, and ASR were authorized. At the time, it was said to recognize service and improve morale. For that reason, I believe it should stay.

Response by MSgt Neil Greenfield made Aug 25 at 2018 11:41 PM

2018-08-25T23:41:26-04:00

Actually, the only benefit I see to it is when/if a service member goes to another US military service. When wearing your ribbons, it shows that you served in the Army.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Aug 26 at 2018 8:49 AM

2018-08-26T08:49:03-04:00

If you have the NDSM, why do you need the ASR? Seems kinda redundant.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2018 7:24 PM

2018-08-26T19:24:09-04:00

My belief is it should be awarded upon Honorable Discharge from the Army. It serves no purpose while in the Army, however for those that change services, or who become police or other officers who can wear military ribbons, it would actually serve a purpose. So yes, everyone should get one, but not until ETS/Retirement under honorable conditions

Response by SPC Kevin Ford made Aug 26 at 2018 8:27 PM

2018-08-26T20:27:41-04:00

We used to call it the "I lived and breathed medal". I think that nickname says everything we need to know about it.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2018 3:53 PM

2018-08-27T15:53:08-04:00

I think we have much larger issues to address. Plus, why detract from the first colorful addition to the uniform most Soldiers' parents will see?

Response by LTC Stephan Porter made Sep 1 at 2018 8:22 AM

2018-09-01T08:22:35-04:00

I would make it optional. The whole awards thing is so vari d, I’d leave it to give the young guys something. Otherwise we should get rid of time based awards altogether!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2018 11:00 AM

2018-09-01T11:00:25-04:00

SGM, I see your point and can see both sides. So let me ask this question, why do we have an NCOPD Ribbon? Officers don’t earn PME ribbons so why not do away with the service ribbon and PME ribbon? Also, good conduct, shouldn’t all our Soldiers conduct themselves as professionals? So why give them a medal? Officers don’t earn good conduct medals, just a few questions I’d like your perspective on. Good Post and a valid question.

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made Jun 21 at 2019 4:11 PM

2019-06-21T16:11:32-04:00

Yeah so those of you that served almost entirely with a wartime Army may not understand the purpose of the ASR. In peacetime (when they are a lot more stingy with giving out ribbons) it can take years to get the next ribbon on your uniform depending on what unit your in. During the Cold War when I was with my unit in Germany, at least everyone got at least a OSR and a AAM before they PCS'd unless they were really a loser. 101st Airborne in CONUS, you basically got a pat on the back or a certificate to file away somewhere......that was it. All I got from the 101st was a GCR. I contributed a LOT more to my 101st unit then I did with my unit in Germany. 101st I was asst armorer while holding down a line platoon position as well.....which meant a lot of long hours. Nothing was awarded for that. So in peacetime the ASR does serve somewhat of a purpose for those in support units. Infantry units and Combat Arms units can probably do away with it though.

Response by MSG John Duchesneau made Jan 11 at 2020 12:38 AM

2020-01-11T00:38:14-05:00

Lets try this - 1. Make the ASR for E-1 to E-4 only. (Sorry officers, you don't need one.) When an E-4 completes WLC they trade the ASR for an NCOPDR. If a soldier gets promoted to CPL or SGT without completing WLC they still lose their ASR. This will have two effects - 1. E-1s to E-4s still get some "candy" and it encourages E-4s to complete WLC as soon as possible to upgrade their "status". Now that that is settled, we can now start to argue about the NDSM and GWOTSM.....

Response by CPT Brad Wilson made Jan 13 at 2020 1:50 PM

2020-01-13T13:50:18-05:00

I lean towards getting rid of it. Wearing the uniform and wearing your branch insignia shows you have met the standard of being a soldier. I also think we should have a ceremony pinning on that insignia upon completion of AIT and OBC and WOC. Marines are not addressed by their rank or by Marine until they graduate. They have a ceremony where they receive their Eagle Globe and Anchor instilling that pride of achievement that they are known for we should do the same I wore my Field Artillery Cannons my MS IV year as a Cadet and for the 3 months between my commissioning and the start of FAOBC. While I was proud to wear them I wasn’t a qualified Field Artillery Officer and shouldn’t have worn them until I graduated from FAOBC.

Response by LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2020 9:47 PM

2020-01-22T21:47:41-05:00

Welp. I started in the Army went to the Navy. I HATE THAT I CANT WEAR IT!

The point in my mind is to have a ribbon that says "I served in the army" as I have transferred branches it's notice to be in the Navy that has a ribbon that says "hey everyone, I have more experience than you think. I was in the Army before this."

Apparently, I can't wear it in the Navy. Still working on this.

Response by Col Casey "Radio" G. made Feb 15 at 2020 6:04 PM

2020-02-15T18:04:55-05:00

So, a soldier accomplishes and completes something. That soldier deserves recognition. We claim to be a meritocracy, but as someone already mentioned, we provide achievement, commendation, and meritorious service medals for a PCS. I'm answering "NO", but not to preserve history. We need to preserve the medals that represent real achievement, and take a harder look at awarding medals for "meritorious service" merely as part of outprocessing.

Response by SPC William Wilson made Aug 21 at 2020 6:47 PM

2020-08-21T18:47:40-04:00

I was in during the eighties and if it were not for that ribbon some soldiers could have served out a whole first tour and have nothing but rifle and grenade qualification badges.

Response by SSG Kenneth Ponder made Aug 24 at 2020 9:37 PM

2020-08-24T21:37:31-04:00

After basic you wore 2 US insignia on class A/B uniform, after AIT you wore 1 US insignia and 1 branch insignia. The ASR should be eliminated along with OSR, NPDR, and the AAM, as they are totally worthless ribbons, nothing more than participation awards with no significance at all!