Out of curiosity, why is it that those in PSG positions and up receive a BSM as an end of tour award? I personally don't see that as fair, considering those who have given their life receive a BSM. In essence, that sends the message that those who are in these positions, deserve the BSM for their time, while others need to die for the same award. When I first heard this, I was infuriated. In my opinion, it has taken the meaning out of the medal. If people need a small piece of cloth to feel better about themselves, they're not a leader I feel confident in following. Thoughts?
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Awards
Deployment
Awards Deployment
Posted 10 y ago
This is a duplicate discussion and the contents have been merged with the original discussion. Click below to see more on this topic...
The devaluation of the Bronze Star
When I was a young Soldier and heard that someone had a Bronze star, I was in awe because I knew that it took something great to have been awarded THAT medal... Fast forward... Now, anyone who successfully deploys and doesn't step on the wrong toes is GIVEN one. Usually it's in the buddy buddy realm of SFC and above. Of course AR 600-8-22 states that rank doesn't matter when being awarded a medal, but why is it that IT DOES. More often than not, acts performed in combat are awarded with ARCOM's, COA's, coins, hand shakes, high or low-fives based on their rank. I myself am happy to say I have not been GIVEN one. I cannot comprehend how people are proud to have one for successfully in-haling and exhaling air in another country for a certain amount of time then go get license plates and stickers etc. Those before us actually performed acts that EARNED them the medal and recognition. I think it devalues the award for those who have earned it in the past. What are your opinions and / or experiences with this? <br>
When I was a young Soldier and heard that someone had a Bronze star, I was in awe because I knew that it took something great to have been awarded THAT medal... Fast forward... Now, anyone who successfully deploys and doesn't step on the wrong toes is GIVEN one. Usually it's in the buddy buddy realm of SFC and above. Of course AR 600-8-22 states that rank doesn't matter when being awarded a medal, but why is it that IT DOES. More often than not, acts performed in combat are awarded with ARCOM's, COA's, coins, hand shakes, high or low-fives based on their rank. I myself am happy to say I have not been GIVEN one. I cannot comprehend how people are proud to have one for successfully in-haling and exhaling air in another country for a certain amount of time then go get license plates and stickers etc. Those before us actually performed acts that EARNED them the medal and recognition. I think it devalues the award for those who have earned it in the past. What are your opinions and / or experiences with this? <br>
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