Can an individual who is assigned to the 82nd airborne division who is NOT a 11B wear the Combat Infantry Badge (CIB)?

2016-06-20T12:41:21-04:00

A friend of mine told me medics engineers and various other MOS's were authorized to wear the badge simply because they were assigned to 82nd performing infantry duties. My buddy was field artillery (13B 1P). I strongly disagree with this because I read the regulation ( AR 600-8-22 section II 8-6) that clearly states you must be an infantryman (MOS 11B)

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2016 1:02 PM

2016-06-20T13:02:55-04:00

AR 600-8-22 Ch. 8-6b(3):
(3) Personnel with other than an infantry or SF MOS are not eligible, regardless of the circumstances. The infantry or SF SSI or MOS does not necessarily have to be the Soldier’s primary specialty, as long as the Soldier has been properly trained in infantry or SF tactics, possesses the appropriate skill code, and is serving in that specialty when engaged in active ground combat as described above. Commanders are not authorized to make any exceptions to this policy.

So, no, orders or not, the reg is the reg. Anyone other than those possessing the qualifications in the regulation CANNOT rightfully claim or wear the CIB.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2016 1:06 PM

2016-06-20T13:06:25-04:00

Your friend is mis-informed. If they were 11/18 series MOS prior to becoming a Medic or Engineer, etc., and they earned the CIB, then yes they can wear it while being in another MOS. But that is pretty much it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2016 1:06 PM

2016-06-20T13:06:47-04:00

The regs are right, your buddy is incorrect.

Response by SFC J Fullerton made Jun 20 at 2016 1:21 PM

2016-06-20T13:21:06-04:00

Just to clarify, its not just 11B but all 11 series MOS's. That's 11C and the former 11M and 11H's as well. 18 series also, but that is all.

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Jun 20 at 2016 1:23 PM

2016-06-20T13:23:45-04:00

You have to be an 11 series MOS, in an assigned 11 series MOS MTOE position, and in a Brigade or smaller sized unit to be eligible to be awarded the CIB. After being awarded the CIB a Soldier can reclass to whatever floats their boat and wear their CIB because the earned it. Everyone else can either get the CAB or CMB.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2016 1:25 PM

2016-06-20T13:25:02-04:00

Nope, nope and...
NOPE.
Wearing something that you are not authorized to wear will get you in pretty deep trouble. His odds of getting away with it are something close to nothing in the 82d. They are pretty particular about their fourages, unit citations, and other baubles unique to that storied division. NCOs are always on the lookout for stuff like this.
He needs to get right.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Jun 20 at 2016 1:44 PM

2016-06-20T13:44:32-04:00

CIB is specifically for 11 and 18 series MOS ONLY. Further, even 11 and 18 series who are not in infantry slots or assigned to levels above RGT/BDE do not qualify either.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2016 2:12 PM

2016-06-20T14:12:16-04:00

Are you or your buddy sure there is no confusion with the CAB which is MOS immaterial? If not, then any orders awarding the CIB for non 11 CMF or 18 CMF the orders are erroneous are ought to revoked.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jun 20 at 2016 2:17 PM

2016-06-20T14:17:42-04:00

You are correct, they must be Infantry. A cannon Artillerist cannot earn nor wear the badge. The military developed the CAB (Combat Action Badge) for those who enter into a fire fight and are not Infantry. This badge also has specific criteria and is not a given.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2016 2:19 PM

2016-06-20T14:19:06-04:00

Hahahahha No

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2016 2:47 PM

2016-06-20T14:47:27-04:00

What in the...? Tell him to check out the regulation! And if he does not know which one, smack him.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2016 3:20 PM

2016-06-20T15:20:52-04:00

being assinged no, being a medic no these badges are earned, medics have the cmb, unless daul mos'ed then cab, if acting in the secondary mos, anybody else cab only infantry get the cib

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2016 4:45 PM

2016-06-20T16:45:33-04:00

I believe your buddy misspoke and you should ask to see the order. Perhaps he doesn't know the difference between CIB, CAB, and CMB.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2016 6:10 PM

2016-06-20T18:10:50-04:00

If you were to get into a firefight as an 11B, you can wear the CIB throughout your career, even when you reclass. CAB is given to those that are not 11/18 series

Response by CSM James Winslow made Jun 21 at 2016 6:37 AM

2016-06-21T06:37:00-04:00

That's why the Army developed the CAB. So that other MOS's wouldn't be jealous of the Infantry.

Response by LTC Joseph George made Jun 21 at 2016 7:08 AM

2016-06-21T07:08:12-04:00

No, the regulations prohibit it as it is an Infantry Award only. AR 670-1 and 600-8-22 spell out the guidelines. All other MOS's will be awarded the CAB or if medical the CMB. There are a lot of posers in the Army as there are outside the Army. The CIB is only awarded at BN and below as well. NOt everyone can be awarded it. I served in combat with 82 and 101, and as I am an Infantry Officer and I was assigned to DIVHQ, I cannot wear it. Upsetting as it may be, I get the CAB.

Response by SP5 Joel McDargh made Jun 21 at 2016 10:53 AM

2016-06-21T10:53:47-04:00

Friend of mine who was with quartermaster corp in Vietnam was awarded the CIB as he was embedded with infantry going on patrols and making contact with the enemy. Bottom line is that a soldier's number one job regardless of MOS is as an infantryman. If one serves in that capacity then I see no problem with this award given. However, it would be nice to see the CAB awarded retroactive to those who served in a combat zones and came in contact with enemy fire while going about their duties. Marine Corp has done this retroactive to WW2.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2016 10:54 AM

2016-06-21T10:54:29-04:00

If your friend does this, he will at a minimum, be laughed at...if he's around hostile or drunk Infantrymen, he will get his ass kicked.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2016 1:13 PM

2016-06-21T13:13:41-04:00

Was he too lazy to look up the reg?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2016 1:23 PM

2016-06-21T13:23:46-04:00

Your friend is wrong and you're right. He can compete and complete all tasks for the EIB and get the certificate but he is still ineligible to wear it or use the certificate as military training. For instance, Im a 91B, an 11B could not receive a mechanics badge because he is not a 91 series MOS

Response by SFC Don Ward made Jun 21 at 2016 5:03 PM

2016-06-21T17:03:50-04:00

Why do some of you people even ask these questions? Do you just have too much time on your hands, or should you be following that old Mark Twain sage: It's better to keep your mouth closed and appear stupid, rather than opening it and removing all doubt.

Response by SFC Thomas Butler made Jun 21 at 2016 5:13 PM

2016-06-21T17:13:48-04:00

Wow! No, they can't.

Response by SPC Tony Bucaro made Jun 21 at 2016 6:51 PM

2016-06-21T18:51:24-04:00

Not no ... but HELL NO!!! You can tell your friend that he is dead wrong!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2016 8:03 PM

2016-06-21T20:03:37-04:00

Is this a serious quiestion? You quoted the regulation but for some reason you still confused if your friend is right.

Response by SPC Juan Romero made Jun 21 at 2016 8:32 PM

2016-06-21T20:32:21-04:00

Only 11B are eligible and there are no exceptions to this policy

Response by SPC John Decker made Jun 21 at 2016 8:39 PM

2016-06-21T20:39:57-04:00

Is there anything in the regs about commanders discretion? I was a medic when I was in. No active combat operations at the time. Very specific requirements for both EMB and EIB that had to be met before being eligible to wear either one. It was my understanding that similar requirements existed for the combat version of each badge.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2016 9:35 PM

2016-06-21T21:35:50-04:00

1. He's wrong and mis informed
2. What's infantry duties? Lol.

Response by COL Jeff Williams made Jun 22 at 2016 1:46 AM

2016-06-22T01:46:49-04:00

Is your friend wearing the CIB now? If so, and he is your friend, I would tell him o take it off. I sincerely doubt he has orders to wear it

Response by 1LT Tom Wilson made Jun 22 at 2016 6:44 AM

2016-06-22T06:44:27-04:00

In his classic Up Front, Bill Mauldin writes about a controversy involving combat medics who were not allowed to wear the CIB on the basis that they were supposed to be non-combatants and the wisdom from on high was that the Germans would misconstrue the award. Mauldin says that the grunts raised holy hell about it on the basis that the Corpsmen were sharing the same risks and routinely went above and beyond the call of duty to attend to fallen soldiers.

The issue was resolved with the advent of the Combat Medics Badge (That's probably not its official name, but it captures the intent of the award). As far as I know, that award is still being issued.

As for the other MOS, I don't know.

Just for the record, I recommend both Up Front and Back Home by Bill Mauldin, In many ways, Up Front was more important to me growing up than the Bible. I recommend it especially to junior officers.

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Jun 22 at 2016 8:20 AM

2016-06-22T08:20:09-04:00

I learned a lot from the responses, not being Army I supposed every soldier recieved a badge being in hostile territory for a given amount of time. No clue ther were 0311 only. Might be simpler, Marines don't get much in the way of anything other than Marines , name rank.

Response by Cpl Vic Eizenga made Jun 22 at 2016 10:05 AM

2016-06-22T10:05:36-04:00

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 22 at 2016 10:22 AM

2016-06-22T10:22:24-04:00

I have seen this happen. At the start of the Iraq War plenty of unit were short on infantryman. So they would augment infantry positions with just about anyone they could find. I don't know if the the 82nd did this. I was with them briefly at the start of the war. But later I found a 88M with a CIB. I thought it was odd because I saw his combat patch wasn't from an infantry unit so I asked him about it. He said he was in a infantry position and his command got him a CIB. This did happen often. Due to this was why the CAB came out. But to have a CIB you must be infantry. I wouldn't believe him one bit. That is some wikipedia regulation I am sure. Plus being stationed at Bragg I think a paratrooper would know better.

Response by SPC James Gehringer made Jun 22 at 2016 2:18 PM

2016-06-22T14:18:30-04:00

no they can't even if you are in a infantry unit you can not be awarded the CIB unless you are infantry i was infantry- we had medics in our unit in iraq they could not beawarded the CIB because they were not infantry instead they got the CMB ( combat medics badge)

Response by SSG Robert Albright made Jun 22 at 2016 4:15 PM

2016-06-22T16:15:25-04:00

The answer is a bit tricky, in that, it depends not only on the current award criteria but also the past award criteria and in what manner the regulations have been updated. I'll give you a couple of examples:

1) During the Vietnam War Combat Engineers assigned to Infantry units were eligible under certain circumstances; they should all be too old to be on active duty by now. The only one I knew that had received a CIB was an Armry Junior ROTC instructor and he recently passed away.

2) Sometime during the 1980s the regs were changed to allow, under certain conditions, all 18 series MoS (special forces), the right to be awarded the CIB.

3) In 2007, while I was serving as an Advisor, the regulations were changed to allow Artillery Officers serving as Advisors and acting as Infantry soldiers, to be eligible for the CIB. Prediction, the first CIB awarded to a woman will be a retroactive award and a result of the Advisor program, as there were a great many female advisors.

Here's a link to some of the historical changes through 1991.
http://www.blackied2501.com/cib.htm

cib

(1) The Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB) was established by the War Department on 27 October 1943. Lieutenant General Lesley J. McNair, then the Army Ground Forces commanding general, was instrumental in its creation. He originally recommended that it be called the "fighter badge." The CIB was designed to enhance morale and the prestige of the "Queen of Battle." Then Secretary of War Henry Stinson said, "It is high time we recognize in a...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2016 4:40 AM

2016-06-23T04:40:26-04:00

Ah yes, I remember this deal. So a few years back, artilleryman in the 82nd were trained to fire the 120mm mortar system because the higher angle of fire was better suited to the mountains of Afghanistan than the 105mm howitzers that were organic to the Division. Mortars are an Infantry specialty. After cross training to fire mortars, there was a push to recognize these Artillerymen as Infantrymen by the 319th AFAR and it flopped. Doing the job of an Infantryman does not qualify you for the CIB. You have to be an Infantryman, assigned to an Infantry position, and engage in combat as such according to clearly defined standards to qualify for the CIB.

Response by SGT Allen D'Aoust made Jul 11 at 2016 9:33 PM

2016-07-11T21:33:19-04:00

That is only for 11 series MOS who have see combat.

Response by SPC Juan Romero made Jul 14 at 2016 12:46 PM

2016-07-14T12:46:02-04:00

There are basically three requirements for award of the CIB. The soldier must be an infantryman satisfactorily performing infantry duties, must be assigned to an infantry unit during such time as the unit is engaged in active ground combat, and must actively participate in such ground combat.

Response by SPC David Morris made Sep 30 at 2017 1:10 PM

2017-09-30T13:10:09-04:00

CIB no, but the CAB yes

Response by SSG Joseph VanDyck made Sep 30 at 2017 1:28 PM

2017-09-30T13:28:20-04:00

Only 11 series and 18 series are authorized to wear the CIB. Even 18D's.

Response by PO3 Scot Fahey made Sep 30 at 2017 1:30 PM

2017-09-30T13:30:57-04:00

ok, As a Sailor, here is my question. One yes you must be an infantryman (MOS 11B)to earn this award. But after your tour, having properly earned the award, can a soldier change MOS and keep the award? My point is our official MOS or Navy Rating codes, have very little to do with the truth that USN Sailors support Army Infantry sometimes side by side. At some point we USN types needs to invite you ground pounders back to the ship for hot coffee, hot food, and oh yea hot showers, to be rocked to sleep in a Navy rack

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Sep 30 at 2017 1:36 PM

2017-09-30T13:36:01-04:00

That's what the CAB is for.

Response by SPC Matt Johnson made Sep 30 at 2017 6:48 PM

2017-09-30T18:48:56-04:00

I actually was in couple firefights and hit with an IED and got shot at several times. before I got my CAB. and I see several units giving them away like candy for just being in theater. I think they only gave me mine because they didn't want to give someone below the rank of E-5 that wasn't infantry an award. meanwhile desk jockeys that never leave the wire get bronze stars. rant over

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 30 at 2017 8:40 PM

2017-09-30T20:40:58-04:00

If he wants to wear a CIB so badly, have him try to reclass and go again.

Response by PO1 Steve Mitchell made Jan 25 at 2018 4:13 PM

2018-01-25T16:13:46-05:00

I remember a few 12B's with the CIB from Vietnam when I was in Germany. Never thought to ask if they were 11B's before they became 12B's. I remember coming across the EIB course that was just setup by one of the two Inf. Bn's near us while we were out running a compass course. We got a good look at it and shook our heads....all we could say was "they get a badge for this?"

Response by Sgt Paul Baughman made Jan 25 at 2018 5:53 PM

2018-01-25T17:53:51-05:00

No. That’s what the CAB and CMB are for. Please tell your friend to stop it.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jan 25 at 2018 7:57 PM

2018-01-25T19:57:36-05:00

Unless of course if Division says you were participating as a grunt?? I would have thought the CAB was the appropriate award.

Response by Cpl Todd Engebretson made Jan 26 at 2018 8:48 PM

2018-01-26T20:48:16-05:00

how about prior service Marine with a infantry MOS 0331 machine gunner, could that be retro to CIB thanks and thank all of you for your service.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Feb 7 at 2018 11:22 AM

2018-02-07T11:22:58-05:00

NO, NO, NO- that is what the CAB was designed for, the reg is specific enough.

Response by SPC Juan Romero made Feb 7 at 2018 12:10 PM

2018-02-07T12:10:48-05:00

For award of the CIB a Soldier must meet the following three requirements:

(1) Be an infantryman satisfactorily performing infantry duties.

(2) Assigned to an infantry unit during such time as the unit is engaged in active ground combat.

(3) Actively participate in such ground combat. Campaign or battle credit alone is not sufficient for award of the CIB.

The specific eligibility criteria for the CIB require that an officer (SSI 11 or 18) in the grade of colonel or below, or an Army enlisted Soldier or warrant officer with an infantry or Special Forces MOS, who subsequent to 6 December 1941 has satisfactorily performed duty while assigned or attached as a member of an infantry, ranger or special forces unit of brigade, regimental, or smaller size during any period such unit was engaged in active ground combat. Eligibility for Special Forces personnel in Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) 18B, 18C, 18E, 18F, and 18Z (less Special Forces medical sergeant) accrues from 20 December 1989. Retroactive awards of the CIB to Special Forces personnel are not authorized prior to 20 December 1989. A recipient must be personally present and under hostile fire while serving in an assigned infantry or Special Forces primary duty, in a unit actively engaged in ground combat with the enemy. The unit in question can be of any size smaller than brigade.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2018 1:08 PM

2018-02-07T13:08:29-05:00

Yes you have to mos q in 11b to be awarded and wear the cib

Response by LCpl Sonny York made Feb 7 at 2018 7:10 PM

2018-02-07T19:10:51-05:00

Do prior service Marines with MOS 0311 who have been awarded CAR rate the CIB if they move to army

Response by MSG Frank Kapaun made Feb 7 at 2018 7:17 PM

2018-02-07T19:17:26-05:00

Goooooot Damn, The douchebaggery is never ending. Want a CIB? Reclass Infantry. Want a CMB? Reclass as a medic.

Response by LCpl Donald Faucett made Feb 7 at 2018 8:24 PM

2018-02-07T20:24:07-05:00

Everyone’s first mos is infantry, especially the 82nd performing the duties. Everyone in the Marines first job is rifleman

Response by SFC Benjamin Varlese made Feb 7 at 2018 9:24 PM

2018-02-07T21:24:03-05:00

Uhh...no, no, and no. If you are a POG -sorry, support personnel - you don’t get to wear a CIB. If you want one, reclass to 11 or 18 series and earn it; otherwise take your CAB, assuming you were directly engaged with the enemy, and be content not being a grunt. Sorry, not sorry if this “offends” anyone

Response by SPC Mike Lake made Feb 7 at 2018 9:53 PM

2018-02-07T21:53:08-05:00

No they can't if they aren't 11 series when they earned it that's what the combat action badge is for the other Combat MOS

Response by SSG Joseph VanDyck made Feb 7 at 2018 11:50 PM

2018-02-07T23:50:10-05:00

MOS 11B/11C or any 18 series. LTC and below.

Response by SGT Stephen Jaffe made Feb 7 at 2018 11:50 PM

2018-02-07T23:50:23-05:00

I may be old fashioned, but why wear ribbons or skill badges you weren't entitled to ? I'm a Vietnam Vet, and I only wear the ones my DD214 says I have. I've been out of the army almost 50 years, but I still hold other vets and active duty personnel in high regards.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 1:54 AM

2018-02-08T01:54:17-05:00

I was 11B, never had the CIB, that was alright with Me, so I wore my EIB, means more to ME. Does that rime with INFANTRY? lol

Response by SP5 David Connolly made Feb 8 at 2018 10:47 AM

2018-02-08T10:47:27-05:00

Trained and assigned as Infantry, 11B.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 11:21 AM

2018-02-08T11:21:57-05:00

I was awarded a NATO medal when coming back from Afghanistan on top of my ISAF Nato medal. They put it in my DD214 and I didn’t catch the difference until I needed to get my uniform ready for an event. I looked up the different medals and realized they were for two different area of operations, nonetheless I do not wear that specific NATO medal because I know I did not serve there, it’s called integrity, he knows he was not or is not a 11 series and he knows the regulation, and he knows someone gave him bum orders. SMH!

Response by SFC John Fontenot made Feb 8 at 2018 12:23 PM

2018-02-08T12:23:18-05:00

Why wear something your not authorized? I was under the idea that to wear a CIB, CAB or CMB you had orders awarding you the medal. I was never infantry but to me the CAB and CMB, are nothing more than participation awards. You had a bunch of jealous people who wanted a medal for combat. We need the draft so the army can toughen up.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 1:58 PM

2018-02-08T13:58:41-05:00

Why is this a topic? You have to be 11 series or 18 series (COL and below) to receive the CIB. If someone says that their command have them orders, they are either lying or their command is wrong. Unless your command is on the same level as the Department of the Army, then something is wrong because they are changing regulations.

Response by CSM David Draughn made Feb 8 at 2018 2:27 PM

2018-02-08T14:27:56-05:00

That is WRONG! The Army awarded Vietnam-era tankers and scouts the CIB and then recalled them. Sounds like wishful thinking! A friend of mine spent 12 months in Vietnam in an ADA unit as a “duster” crewman. He fought hard, long and with honor, yet no CIB.

Response by SFC Pete Meyer made Feb 8 at 2018 5:34 PM

2018-02-08T17:34:41-05:00

I remember an 04 when all the Pogs were crying about How they should be entitled to a combat badge like the CIB. So DOD came up with the CAB to shut them up.. but I see it didn’t work because they are still crying that they think they should have the CIB.. if you want the CIB join the infantry deployed to a combat theater, engage the enemy, and earn the CIB! Till them get bent!!

Response by TSgt Sean LaPlante made Feb 8 at 2018 6:28 PM

2018-02-08T18:28:56-05:00

One thing I found interesting was while I was a Cav Scout (19D); I became assigned to an Infantry unit (later became 2d ACR Light) our OPS SGM wanted me & couple others that were scouts to take the EIB (exam). We were all against it because we all we couldn’t wear it. We were like if we’re going to put all this work into the EIB & couldn’t wear it, why waste time & resources.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Feb 8 at 2018 6:30 PM

2018-02-08T18:30:25-05:00

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 7:49 PM

2018-02-08T19:49:41-05:00

Nope, unless they are 11B MOS qualified as primary or secondary MOS and serving in an Infantry position when earned.

Response by CPL David Thompson made Feb 8 at 2018 8:11 PM

2018-02-08T20:11:05-05:00

Or 18 series.

Response by LtCol Stan Hendrickson made Feb 8 at 2018 8:46 PM

2018-02-08T20:46:00-05:00

A second function of combat engineer is to fight as infantry and how about engineer squads attached to infantry units?

Response by SP6 Ed Waltz made Feb 8 at 2018 8:56 PM

2018-02-08T20:56:30-05:00

11B/C or SF

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 10:03 PM

2018-02-08T22:03:41-05:00

Well since I was in back in the 80s and 90s.thats the most DUMB ASS thingsI've heard of ,so any other mos series like i mine 19D,so if FIGHTING I'm not entitled to the CIB,if I understand correctly.just WOUL like the info if I could.thank you

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 10:24 PM

2018-02-08T22:24:46-05:00

Honestly thinking about all of this REALLY REALLY STUPID AWARDS,RIBBONS AND BADGES.Ireally don't think the men and women from previous would give a rats ASS, if you were there and fought weather INF,ARMOR,ARMY AIR CORPS or artillery.Back then no one cared about that stuff; but now it seems SINCE the millennial entered the services everyone wants awards or ribbons.none of it mean shit to anyone when you ETS. NOT EVEN YOUR OWN COUNTRY. IVE LEARNED THAT THE ONLY THING THAT MATTERS IS YOUR FAMILY,YOUR BUDDIES AND YOURSELF, AND WHAT YOU, AS A PERSON HAS ACCOMPLISHED IN SERVICE AND ESPECIALLY FAMILY.

Response by CPL Joshua Back made Feb 8 at 2018 10:57 PM

2018-02-08T22:57:28-05:00

That's like saying since your in a airassault unit that you can wear the wings. Because you are performing airassault missions. Damn cry babies always want to say they are just like the Infantry.

Response by SGT Angeline Stephens made Feb 8 at 2018 11:24 PM

2018-02-08T23:24:47-05:00

Your buddy might be referring to the Combat Medic Badge that medics can only obtain if they're assigned to an Infantry unit during combat operations.

Response by SFC Killo Serafin made Feb 9 at 2018 3:56 AM

2018-02-09T03:56:48-05:00

True ! and it has to be earned.

Response by SSG David Palomarez made Feb 9 at 2018 9:25 AM

2018-02-09T09:25:44-05:00

Look at the regs. And then look at the ERB that will show you if they have it or not

Response by SPC Scott Currens made Feb 9 at 2018 9:54 AM

2018-02-09T09:54:16-05:00

You have to be 11 or 18 series unless you were one previous and earned a CIB then you are allowed

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2018 9:54 AM

2018-02-09T09:54:52-05:00

Bullshit

Response by MSgt Michael Brodine made Feb 9 at 2018 10:45 AM

2018-02-09T10:45:02-05:00

Do the duty, wear the badge. Other MOS’s pack your ego. Maybe the key word to clarify issue, combatant.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2018 11:49 AM

2018-02-09T11:49:22-05:00

So an 11C can’t wear a CIB?

Response by John H Green Jr made Feb 9 at 2018 12:53 PM

2018-02-09T12:53:01-05:00

I just find it hard to believe some of the questions posted here.

Response by SSG(P) Matthew Bisbee made Feb 9 at 2018 1:14 PM

2018-02-09T13:14:49-05:00

According to regulations, if your buddy has an 11 series or 18 series MOS as a secondary or additional AND was performing duties of an 11/18 series MOS even if 11/18 MOS was not his primary MOS, he can be awarded the CIB. If artillery is his only MOS, I would work on getting his erroneous CIB orders corrected so he can still get his CAB.

Response by SP5 David Scott made Feb 9 at 2018 2:30 PM

2018-02-09T14:30:06-05:00

No, you earn it, same with the CMB

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2018 2:37 PM

2018-02-09T14:37:21-05:00

I do understand the AR as quoted. I get the point of the CAB. But if you send soldiers that are not 11B's in to combat or other hostile areas why not the CIB?

Response by MSG Don Jones made Feb 9 at 2018 3:49 PM

2018-02-09T15:49:10-05:00

Wrong

Response by SPC Kevin Stack made Feb 9 at 2018 6:30 PM

2018-02-09T18:30:04-05:00

You have to be in the 11 series.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2018 6:53 PM

2018-02-09T18:53:56-05:00

As I read the clarification from HRC “Personnel with other than an infantry or Special Forces MOS are not eligible, regardless of the circumstances. The infantry or Special Forces SSI or MOS does not necessarily have to be the Soldier’s primary specialty, as long as the Soldier has been properly trained in infantry or Special Forces tactics, possesses the appropriate skill code, and is serving in that specialty when engaged in active ground combat as described above. Awards will not be made to general officers or to members of headquarters companies of units larger in size than brigade” Those who have been properly trained as infantry (actually completed the AIT or qualification course in one of the infantry or SF MOSs) is eligible even in the Soldier does not have the 18 or 11 series MOS as their primary MOS. There are plenty of support guys who get attached to SF or Infantry units, who were once 11 or 18 series, who come under contact, shoot move and communicate, close with and destroy the enemy preforming the same functions as an Infantryman or SF soldier. Therefore, the possibility still exists, despite the frequency that it occurs.

Response by SGT Bill Van Dyke made Feb 9 at 2018 8:59 PM

2018-02-09T20:59:22-05:00

Friend is full of shit!

Response by SPC Donn Sinclair made Feb 9 at 2018 9:06 PM

2018-02-09T21:06:21-05:00

This subject has always puzzled me. The criteria says you nave to have an infantry MOS,,, period. Don't know how it is now, but when I was in Vietnam, (1st ID, '69-'70), if you were in a support unit and wanted to earn a CIB, it was easy. All you had to do was ask your C.O. You'd be sent to a leg unit THAT DAY. Infantry units were always under strength, support units were almost always over strength. Funny, I don't remember guys breaking down the old man's door making that request.

Response by SGT Mark Shinn made Feb 9 at 2018 9:06 PM

2018-02-09T21:06:56-05:00

11A, 11C, 11Z,18A, 18B, 18C.... sorry... not just the bang bangs...

Response by LTC Seymour Vladimer made Feb 9 at 2018 9:09 PM

2018-02-09T21:09:19-05:00

There is the Combat Engineer Badge. Think other MOS combat badges

Response by MAJ Dan Ciccarelli made Feb 9 at 2018 10:44 PM

2018-02-09T22:44:42-05:00

So, if I bandage someone in combat, can I get a CMB?

Response by SFC Charles Barton made Feb 10 at 2018 3:20 AM

2018-02-10T03:20:26-05:00

Your trained as a 11b in basic training anyhow and go on to your most of your choice

Response by SFC Charles Barton made Feb 10 at 2018 3:21 AM

2018-02-10T03:21:24-05:00

Mos

Response by 1SG Leon Espe made Feb 10 at 2018 8:45 AM

2018-02-10T08:45:58-05:00

See Wikipedia: The CIB and its non-combat contemporary, the Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB) were created in November 1943 during World War II to boost morale and increase the prestige of service in the Infantry. Specifically, it recognizes the inherent sacrifices of all infantrymen, and that they face a greater risk of being wounded or killed in action than any other military occupational specialties.[3]

During the Korean War with the 3rd ID 1950-51 I and many of my comrades actually wished we could be on the ground with the Infantry guys and in the ditches because we were about 4 feet above ground level in our positions on an open turret M-19 Light Tank or and M-16 Half Track with bullets and shrapnel whizzing past our heads. In Vietnam 1967-68 I was a First Sergeant in the 1st Signal Brigade. Our Signal guys were on telephone poles making repairs during TET 68 while the Infantry guys were belly crawling on the ground below when there was heavy incoming artillery and mortars. There are some instances when it is much safer to be an Infantryman.

Response by SPC Charles Epperson made Feb 10 at 2018 11:30 AM

2018-02-10T11:30:21-05:00

You keep saying this af if it was still true. It was true then but not now. There is no current exception like that

Response by SFC Charles Kauffman made Feb 10 at 2018 1:27 PM

2018-02-10T13:27:56-05:00

Bovine Scatology

Response by SP5 Larry Morris made Feb 10 at 2018 1:40 PM

2018-02-10T13:40:41-05:00

I'm glad I 'm not in anymore this is crap

Response by SSG John Morgan made Feb 10 at 2018 2:49 PM

2018-02-10T14:49:06-05:00

Yep pretty simple 11B=CIB others=CAB No exceptions.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2018 4:03 PM

2018-02-10T16:03:37-05:00

It's pretty clear, must be a trained CMF 11/18 or former CMF 11/18 and serving in a coded CMF 11/18 position during the time of qualification for award. para 2 specifically state non 11 or 18 cannot receive, and Commanders cannot deviate. Pretty cut and dry, rare for a regulation

Response by PO2 Karl Lehn made Feb 10 at 2018 4:48 PM

2018-02-10T16:48:55-05:00

Help a Navy man out. Whats a CAB. I know what a CIB is.

Response by SGT Bruce Antin made Feb 10 at 2018 8:52 PM

2018-02-10T20:52:14-05:00

Any one who was in combat gets to wear the CIB award and like me it’s on your DD 214 .

Response by SP5 Dustin Icenhower made Feb 10 at 2018 10:36 PM

2018-02-10T22:36:33-05:00

11B or 11C

Response by SGT Eric Vazquez made Feb 11 at 2018 6:55 AM

2018-02-11T06:55:57-05:00

You answered your question

Response by CPL Freddy Travaglia made Feb 11 at 2018 11:00 AM

2018-02-11T11:00:12-05:00

always thought you had to be in combat.

Response by SPC Joe Cortesi made Feb 11 at 2018 1:32 PM

2018-02-11T13:32:31-05:00

My primary MOS when I served i '69-'71 was 13E. I was assigned to he 2nd Inf. and was given the CIB during my first tour. I continued to wear it and the Meritorious Unit award they received while I was with them, for the remainder of my enlistment. Neither was ever questioned by by superiors at any point. I never had an 11 or 18 MOS. Are you saying I was wrong in wearing them?

Response by SGT Frank Pritchett made Feb 11 at 2018 7:25 PM

2018-02-11T19:25:00-05:00

My understanding that if it is an award and is on the ERB, then it is part of the uniform. Not to wear it is out of uniform. It is every soldiers duty to keep their ERB up to date and correct.

Response by SSG Norbert Johnson made Feb 11 at 2018 8:55 PM

2018-02-11T20:55:02-05:00

You have to be MOS Qualified as 11B. I held a number of MOS/s and from what I experienced, I would not qualify for a CIB even if I was qualified 11B but my primary MOS at that time was Combat Medic (91A). The appropriate badge would be Combat Medic Badge. The same if reversed, I would then be eligible for the CIB if my Primary MOS was 91B. In my Case I had 3 MOS/s at the Same time Primary, Secondary , Additional. And then there was the Duty MOS. which is basically an oxymoron MOS.. for those who are qualified in the other MOS/s, but the none of MOS/s exist in the command assigned. Therefore, from my direct experience, If you did not hold the 11B MOS as your Primary MOS you are not eligible for the CIB. If you served in the Gulf War it is more likely than not you would be awarded the Combat Action Badge.

Response by SPC Rick Magnone made Feb 11 at 2018 9:58 PM

2018-02-11T21:58:38-05:00

If you are not 11b and you were in direct combat with the enemy I believe a CAB at best would be awarded if so authorized.

Response by SSG Thomas Mathei made Feb 11 at 2018 10:25 PM

2018-02-11T22:25:25-05:00

Sacred territory boys. 11B only. No exceptions. Infantry actions in the face of enemy.

Response by SP6 John Handorf made Feb 12 at 2018 3:09 AM

2018-02-12T03:09:09-05:00

Who, smart enough to not be an 11b, would want to wear one anyway?

Response by SSG Carl Gamel made Feb 12 at 2018 9:29 AM

2018-02-12T09:29:23-05:00

At the Battle of the Bulge in WWII, there was such a shortage of infantry soldiers that cooks,clerk's and everyone else was sent to the lines as infantry. They were later awarded the CIB, because they were used and fought as Infantry. The regular infantrymen who fought along side of them thought it was well deserved.
If a soldier has fought as a infantrymen in a Infantry unit, then he has earned and deserves the CIB.

Response by LTC Joseph George made Feb 12 at 2018 9:50 AM

2018-02-12T09:50:54-05:00

The requirements per regulation. AR 600-8-22, Military Awards, Chapter 8.
AR 670-1, Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia.

For award of the CIB a Soldier must meet the following three requirements:

(1) Be an infantryman satisfactorily performing infantry duties.

(2) Assigned to an infantry unit during such time as the unit is engaged in active ground combat.

(3) Actively participate in such ground combat. Campaign or battle credit alone is not sufficient for award of the CIB.

The specific eligibility criteria for the CIB require that an officer (SSI 11 or 18) in the grade of colonel or below, or an Army enlisted Soldier or warrant officer with an infantry or Special Forces MOS, who subsequent to 6 December 1941 has satisfactorily performed duty while assigned or attached as a member of an infantry, ranger or special forces unit of brigade, regimental, or smaller size during any period such unit was engaged in active ground combat. Eligibility for Special Forces personnel in Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) 18B, 18C, 18E, 18F, and 18Z (less Special Forces medical sergeant) accrues from 20 December 1989. Retroactive awards of the CIB to Special Forces personnel are not authorized prior to 20 December 1989. A recipient must be personally present and under hostile fire while serving in an assigned infantry or Special Forces primary duty, in a unit actively engaged in ground combat with the enemy. The unit in question can be of any size smaller than brigade.

Personnel with other than an infantry or Special Forces MOS are not eligible, regardless of the circumstances. The infantry or Special Forces SSI or MOS does not necessarily have to be the Soldier’s primary specialty, as long as the Soldier has been properly trained in infantry or Special Forces tactics, possesses the appropriate skill code, and is serving in that specialty when engaged in active ground combat as described above. Awards will not be made to general officers or to members of headquarters companies of units larger in size than brigade

On or after 18 September 2001, a Soldier must be an Army infantry or special forces officer (SSI 11 or 18) in the grade of colonel or below, or an Army enlisted Soldier or warrant officer with an infantry or special forces MOS, who has satisfactorily performed duty while assigned or attached as a member of an infantry, ranger or special forces unit of brigade, regimental, or smaller size during any period such unit was engaged in active ground combat, to close with and destroy the enemy with direct fires. A Soldier must be personally present and under fire while serving in an assigned infantry or Special Forces primary duty, in a unit engaged in active ground combat, to close with and destroy the enemy with direct fires. Soldiers possessing MOS of 18D (Special Forces Medical Sergeant) who satisfactorily perform special forces duties while assigned or attached to a special forces unit of brigade, regimental, or smaller size during any period such unit was engaged in active ground combat may be awarded the CIB. These Soldiers must have been personally present and engaged in active ground combat, to close with and destroy the enemy with direct fires. Retroactive awards under these criteria are not authorized for service prior to 18 September 2001. Those Soldiers possessing MOS of 18D who qualify for award of the CMB from 18 September 2001 to 3 June 2005 will remain qualified for the badge.

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Feb 12 at 2018 10:02 AM

2018-02-12T10:02:44-05:00

CIB?
pfffffffft

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2018 10:12 AM

2018-02-12T10:12:01-05:00

May the regs ever be in your favor

Response by CH (COL) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2018 1:25 PM

2018-02-12T13:25:49-05:00

Once awarded, like the EIB, it is a permanent award. However, it can ONLY be awarded to 11 or 18 Series MOS holders. I earned, and was awarded the EIB while an Infantry LT. I am still entirely authorized to wear it even though I am a Chaplain.

Response by CPL Larry Gacka made Feb 12 at 2018 2:29 PM

2018-02-12T14:29:13-05:00

My understanding is that only a 11B could wear it. Isn't there a combat medic badge? If it was created for the infantry then let them wear it.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2018 3:01 PM

2018-02-12T15:01:52-05:00

SSG Ike Phelan I believe must be a 11 series in a 11 series position to get the CIB. If a 11B gets shot at and shoots back and kills 500 enemy while assigned in a non-11 position they get the Combat Action Badge.

Response by PFC Howard Bryant Blackshear made Feb 12 at 2018 8:30 PM

2018-02-12T20:30:04-05:00

""'The Best MARINE is a "SUBMARINE"".

Response by Cpl Dwight Wood made Feb 12 at 2018 9:40 PM

2018-02-12T21:40:23-05:00

The Marine Corps Combat Action Ribbon is only issued to those who have engaged in direct fire combat with the enemy. It is an individual award and regardless of MOS if you directly engage the enemy you are eligible. Perhaps the Army should do the same

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2018 11:01 PM

2018-02-12T23:01:50-05:00

No dumb ass

Response by SFC Timothy Wieboldt made Feb 12 at 2018 11:03 PM

2018-02-12T23:03:04-05:00

I held the MOS 11B. Earned the EIB in Hawaii 25th Division. When I re enlisted to be a Tank Mechanic. I deployed to combat zone. I was involved in operations with the armor that did dismounted operations. I also was involved in hanging rounds for the motor platoon. But since I wasn't actively a 11 series MOS I was not awarded the CIB. But I am satisfied with the EIB.

Response by PO2 Hank Kaczmarek made Feb 12 at 2018 11:11 PM

2018-02-12T23:11:05-05:00

In The Marines, everyone is considered a Rifleman. Probably why the Corps has no badge to identify those in the Infantry. Shit gets thick enough, the quill artist has advanced infantry training and has to qualify on the range. It wasn't that way when I was in but when my Div. Commander Al Gray became Commandant he put it back the way it should be.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Feb 13 at 2018 12:31 AM

2018-02-13T00:31:09-05:00

No CIB, 11 or SF only

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2018 1:19 AM

2018-02-13T01:19:34-05:00

This is correct the only mos’s that are authorized to wear the cib is 11 and 18 series

Response by SGT Burleson Freddie made Feb 13 at 2018 1:36 AM

2018-02-13T01:36:03-05:00

They can not unless assigned an 11B MOS. There should have been one for other Combat Arms MOS. They did make a CAB, but only for those serving after 2001. So us Gunny Bunnies from Vietnam War and other Combat Arms Units like Armor, who fought like Infantry, directly were never given squat. But hey, Vietnam Combat Veterans, who saw more combat actions, than most Infantry today, got screwed. We are use to the slight by now, but still feel bitter. Strange that soldiers from an MOS that won many MOHs, DSC, SILVER STARS, BRONZE STARS, ARCOMS AND PURPLE HEARTS can not be recognized as Combat Veterans.

Response by CPL Ron Clark made Feb 13 at 2018 5:13 AM

2018-02-13T05:13:13-05:00

I was in the 82nd in 1969,A trp 1/17 cav as an 11D2P.
Went to vietnam as an 11D2P.
My CIB orders state 11D2P as my MOS.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2018 11:08 AM

2018-02-13T11:08:43-05:00

What about 31B?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2018 11:19 AM

2018-02-13T11:19:13-05:00

My understanding is that this is false. That is why there is a combat action badge, combat field medic badge etc. The infantry badge is strangely (lol) reserved for Infantry.

Response by SGT David Cairns made Feb 13 at 2018 1:27 PM

2018-02-13T13:27:38-05:00

They get a Combat Action Badge am I correct ?

Response by MIDN 2/C Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2018 7:00 PM

2018-02-13T19:00:11-05:00

Back during Korea my great-grandfather was awarded the CIB as an auxiliary officer. I'm sure regulations are different now, but it's happened before.

Response by SGT Jim Teague made Feb 13 at 2018 8:33 PM

2018-02-13T20:33:18-05:00

No if you are not 11 b no !!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2018 12:05 AM

2018-02-14T00:05:28-05:00

I wasn't going to do it, but holy moly. Look at the dog gone name of the award. Now is your buddy fall under 11 CMF?

Response by SSG Steven Cody made Feb 14 at 2018 2:59 AM

2018-02-14T02:59:53-05:00

No, not since WW2. As I understand it, in WW2 the CIB was awarded to nearly everyone that engaged the enemy on ground combat, but since then only 11 series and 18 series can be awarded it. With that being said, if an 11M was awarded the CIB in Desert Storm and subsequently changed his MOS to 13B he would still be authorized to wear the CIB. However if a 13B wad awarded the CAB while in OIF and subsequently changed his MOS to 11B he would still only be allowed to wear the CAB until a CIB is awarded.

Response by SPC Barry Wallace made Feb 14 at 2018 7:22 AM

2018-02-14T07:22:52-05:00

No. If your primary MOS is not or has never been combat arms, you should not be wearing a badge that you haven't earned. If for some reason your unit requires it as part of the uniform, that's one thing. But when you leave that unit, you should surrender that badge. I do not want a damn thing I didn't earn. That is especially true of any type of military honor. Only the soldiers that have earned the badge should wear it.

Response by MSG John Duchesneau made Feb 15 at 2018 9:09 PM

2018-02-15T21:09:19-05:00

The regulation is quite clear - to get a CIB you have to 1. hold an 11 (Infantry) or 18 (Special Forces) series MOS AND be assigned to a "slot" for that MOS in either an Infantry or Special Forces unit. No exceptions. I am sure there are some who disagree but the regulation is the regulation.

There is, of course, the possibility that someone could earn the CIB as an Infantryman and then change MOS's and/or be in a non-Infantry slot.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2018 5:35 PM

2018-02-18T17:35:43-05:00

You must also be serving in an 11B Infantryman MTOE position. I have served with Soldiers that held the 11B MOS, but we’re not serving in that capacity and they were not eligible for the CIB.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2018 9:05 AM

2018-03-04T09:05:05-05:00

Sounds like your "friend" wasn't speaking from a position of knowledge. Next time ask him where he heard it from; if the answer starts with PVT. . . PFC. . . SPC. . ., or a meme of the internet, he probably doesn't know what he is talking about. Your reading of the regulation should have been the stopping point in your quest to validate your buddy's claim.

It's either that, or one of you got confused with the CFMB and/or CAB.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2018 12:15 AM

2018-03-12T00:15:31-04:00

No. The CIB is reserved to Infantry and Special Forces. All others are eligible for the CAB (Combat Action Badge), or the CMB (Combat Medical Badge).

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 22 at 2018 12:37 AM

2018-03-22T00:37:28-04:00

The quick answer is no as you have the regulation. But if someone was ingantry and earned it as an Infantry- person then they reclassified to something else they could still wear the CIB. That’s the only way a non Infantry can wear one. Just like a non Infantry can earn an EIB but is not authorized to eat it if they were not Infantry when they earned it. Or it was the rule when I was an EIB grader back in the 90s.

Response by SGT Charles Rutchick made Mar 25 at 2018 10:21 PM

2018-03-25T22:21:25-04:00

I can no fucking way

Response by CWO2 James Mathews made Apr 1 at 2018 1:56 PM

2018-04-01T13:56:45-04:00

MCPO TM (SS), CWO-2, James Mathews;

I served in the Navy Submarine Force and we wear a pair of silver dolphins when we "qualify" in submarines. Such is a valued emblem which stands for one's knowledge of the ship in which he serves, and a matter of great pride. I would assume the same is felt about the infantry badge! I have seen a senior petty officer rip an undeserved badge off a sailors uniform in public followed by a very severe but short lecture on the wearing of such a badge without deserving it. So, in a note to anyone wearing a badge or award that they do not deserve, were I you, I would not put myself in that possible situation, as I know that I and most other men who wear the dolphins are watching!!

Response by SPC James Ford made Apr 8 at 2018 9:31 PM

2018-04-08T21:31:36-04:00

More of the same from everyone else. Tell your buddy to get real familiar with the regs before wearing awards he did not earn. If he wasn't 11 series or 18 series at the time of the award, even if he was a prior service Marine rifleman, he cannot wear it. If he was indeed awarded it, he can wear a CAB provided he is awarded with a CAB.

Response by SPC Josh McCoy made Apr 19 at 2018 2:45 AM

2018-04-19T02:45:09-04:00

For 11 and 18 series only. Raw deal for other soldiers who don't get it but that's what the CAB is for.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2018 6:35 PM

2018-04-23T18:35:48-04:00

They can get a CAB if they meet the qualifications, but not the CIB.

Response by SGT Aric Lier made Apr 23 at 2018 7:02 PM

2018-04-23T19:02:42-04:00

throat punch him

Response by CPT Jeff Robinette made Apr 29 at 2018 3:09 PM

2018-04-29T15:09:46-04:00

Medics have their own version of the CIB, the Combat Field Medical Badge.
I understood. That the other MOSs were covered by badge.

Response by CPT Jeff Robinette made May 2 at 2018 2:29 AM

2018-05-02T02:29:35-04:00

Medics have the CFMB, The Combat Field Medical Badge. So for Medics this issue is moot.
As far as other MOS's I thought They were covered by the Badge with the Bayonet, right?
Granted I have been out since 84.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2018 3:53 PM

2018-06-03T15:53:40-04:00

NO.
Any flexibility during the Vietnam Conflict (or earlier award periods) was eliminated by subsequent ARs and US Code 32 CFR 578.69. As of 1 JUN 2018 there are three criteria for the award of the CIB:
1) Must be assigned to an MOS / SSI in Functional Areas 11 (Infantry) or 18 (Special Forces) in the grade of COL (O-6) or below. NOTE: 18D SF Medical Sergeants awarded the CMB while assigned [ OR attached ] to either a Special Forces or Infantry unit (and meeting all other applicable criteria) may request an amendment of their records to substitute the CIB for the CMB. While not automatic (it must be requested) the requests are always granted.
2) Must be assigned to an Infantry or Special Forces unit of brigade size or smaller while that unit is engaged in active ground combat.
3) Must be personally engaged and under enemy fire during the engagement.
NO SERVICE MEMBER WITHOUT A Functional Area 11 (Infantry) or 18 (Special Forces) MOS / SSI, ARE ELIGIBLE. (EVER)

Response by SSG Ike Phelan made Jul 1 at 2018 3:49 PM

2018-07-01T15:49:06-04:00

I would like to thank everyone for their responses their were some funny ones and some really good and informative ones and of course since this is a military forum there were some that were writing by some straight up assholes but hey that is why I love you guys.

Response by SSG Harry Outcalt made Aug 13 at 2018 5:58 PM

2018-08-13T17:58:33-04:00

Roflol !!!!, Only an engineer could come up with i',m not a Green Beret but I qualify to Wear a CIB story... Answer is no only Green Berets outside of Infantry are authorized to be awarded the CIB, Green Beret Medics,engineers, communications,Xo's n Team Commander's and members in the 18 series Mos are Infantry Combat oriented Mos's meaning the job includes active combat against an enemy force ... Enough said thanks for the laugh

Response by SPC Gary Welch made Sep 12 at 2018 12:16 PM

2018-09-12T12:16:57-04:00

Your friend is wrong

Response by Lt Col George Roll made Sep 18 at 2018 12:11 AM

2018-09-18T00:11:56-04:00

The USAF Combat Controller depected in We Were Soldiers once and Young was as far as I remember awarded the CIB for his actions in the Idrang Valley while fighting alongside Ltc. Hal Moore. The AF didnt like the idea and offered to exchange it for a Bronz Star Medal.

Response by SFC Harry H. made Dec 20 at 2018 10:03 AM

2018-12-20T10:03:28-05:00

I argued this until I was blue in the face with our BDE. Needless to say I was shitty! Sometimes the National Guard puts their self's in the categories they are put in.

04'-05' Camp Phoneix had a barrage of RPG's that flew over the compound while we (76th BDE) were there. None what so ever landing inside of the base and reports were that they hit so far out no one felt the impact. Heck, more then three quarters of the Soldiers had no clue. Our CoC and all their infinite wisdom pushed for Soldiers to receive the CIB or CAB. I earned my CIB the hard way and this was pissing me off. These people were getting their FreeIB's (FIB) and I was getting pissed. Then how they interpreted the regs, that if you ever served as an Infantrymen as in a secondary MOS, you would be awarded the FIB (CIB). So we had chaplains assistants, cooks and admin folks being awarded the FIB.

I'm still shitty to this day, specially when I see a Soldier parade their CIB as if they earned it who I know exactly how they got theirs.

In 08'-09' Iraq, some of my guys were awarded the CAB when their primary and ONLY MOS was Infantry. I can somewhat see the argument because the mission of our BDE was Convoy Escort, not an Infantry mission. I still feel this is BS. If the CAB was never around would they have gotten the CIB? Now we have Infantry guys running around with a CAB who were never anything but Infantry. I say this, but none of my guys ever wore the badge. I feel it was a smack in the face and they were cheated a time honored award.

Response by CPL Joseph Hutchinson made Jan 8 at 2019 5:44 AM

2019-01-08T05:44:14-05:00

The "I" stands for Infantry. So No. Part of the prestige of the award is for those that chose to BE Infantrymen at time of enlistment. It's not enough that you somehow stumbled into Combat. You have to have been willing to partake IN Combat from day one. Again, the answer is no.

Response by SFC Jon Stevenson made Apr 26 at 2019 3:18 PM

2019-04-26T15:18:22-04:00

The soldier whom would be receiving the badge would be entitled to the CAB, or Combat Action Badge. Only the infantry qualified MOS of 11Bravo is awarded the CIB...

Response by SSG Will Phillips made Jun 15 at 2019 2:25 PM

2019-06-15T14:25:01-04:00

Technically yes all service members are riflemen first. That being said, here are just a couple of examples of why non 11B soldiers should not have the right to earn a CIB. They simply forget the basic infantry skill that they were at one time taught. Both of there examples would be casualties or worse yet liabilities to others on the battlefield. If they were firing in action I believe the Combat Action Badge was made for them.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yVvAImQCNY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4qMY4Rawkc

Us Army reserves Dont know how to load a magazine

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Response by CPL Joseph Elinger made Jul 24 at 2019 3:23 PM

2019-07-24T15:23:08-04:00

Medic in 82nd, combat, CMB.
NonInfantryman, NonMedic in 82nd,combat, CAB.
Artillery, Armor, Engineers would fall under Combat Action Badge.
It's not a pogue badge.
It's a non Infantry / non Medic Badge.
Service in a Combat Theater, regardless of your MOS, carries highly comparable risk to life & limb !

Response by SSG Darrell Peters made Aug 13 at 2019 3:14 PM

2019-08-13T15:14:07-04:00

Your friend is grossly mistaken. Medics qualify for the Combat Medic Badge in lieu of the Combat Infantry Badge. In the Cavalry Gold Spurs have the same weight as the Combat Infantry Badge.

Response by SGT Antonio Orozco made Nov 10 at 2019 6:44 AM

2019-11-10T06:44:56-05:00

Come on is that a real question? Answer is NO....

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2019 4:15 PM

2019-12-08T16:15:13-05:00

Beat your face...

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made May 5 at 2021 9:55 AM

2021-05-05T09:55:30-04:00

The swag of this man wearing a boonie hat to his own award ceremony

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made May 5 at 2021 2:50 PM

2021-05-05T14:50:07-04:00

AFAIK, CIB for all 11 series that meet the requirements. Rifleman B, Motorman C, reckless rifle H, F operations spec, etc X I think a senior NCO. So not just for 11B.

Response by MAJ Byron Oyler made May 5 at 2021 9:41 PM

2021-05-05T21:41:00-04:00

You really do not need to be asking this as you clearly got the answer in the reg, stick to your guns and trust the regulation. I think the friend is confusing an individual award with unit awards.

Response by SFC John Griffin made May 6 at 2021 12:54 AM

2021-05-06T00:54:47-04:00

As a Combat Engineer I’m going to double down with SSG Unger, unless you’re an 11 or 18 series that is a clear NO. The CMB and CAB exist for the other MOS groups.

Response by Maj Charles Porter made May 6 at 2021 2:29 AM

2021-05-06T02:29:54-04:00

Marines have it easy, all ranks all MOS's all conflicts.

Response by SSG William Ryan made Jun 19 at 2021 6:43 AM

2021-06-19T06:43:40-04:00

Cannot wear it ... I think there is a thing prior to CAB you could earn it with a commanders (BN or above that, I forget) it could be awarded with a letter but not worn. EIB was the same way. I actually completed EIB in Fort Lewis, got the certificate, some letter but no orders to wear it and was also told I was not authorized to wear it. This was 1999-2000 so maybe it changed.

On that note the CAB needs a rework. Looks dinky TBH lol. I am sure others feel the same way :-)

But as others have said your PMOS or secondary has to be 11 or 18 series.

Also 18D's that earn EFMB EIB CIB and CFMB should have them merged into one glorious super badge! Made a post about choice with skill identifiers and group badges ... this needs to be communicated more and standardized better across the board and taught in Basic.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Jun 22 at 2022 8:18 PM

2022-06-22T20:18:32-04:00

No.

Response by SPC Edward Logan made Sep 6 at 2022 12:10 AM

2022-09-06T00:10:20-04:00

Sure if he earned as an 11B in an infantry unit.

Response by SGT Hector Rojas, AIGA, SHA made Feb 7 at 2023 1:21 PM

2023-02-07T13:21:23-05:00

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2024 11:52 AM

2024-01-16T11:52:59-05:00

Technically, the answer to your original question is yes. Aside from 11B, two other MOSs and an AOC common to the 82nd Airborne are authorized the CIB; those being 11A, 11C, and 11Z. Though not impossible, it would be unlikely for an 18-series to deploy under the 82nd.

The answer to your friend’s claim: no, but maybe. No one is authorized the CIB solely for duties assigned. As you and others have referenced, AR 600-8-22 outlines those requirements. However, a former 11B-turned-12B or 68W could have previously received a CIB. Or, inversely, a former support Soldier may have reclassed and seen combat as an Infantryman. That would be in virtue of them being infantry-qualified, performing infantry duties, AND having been engaged in combat while performing said duties.

All that said, the Army is weird. I have seen many Soldiers who earned an award or badge and received the wrong one. Most go with what they’re given because they either don’t know better or they know the Army is so stubborn that even if they fight it, they won’t receive the correct award until after they retire.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2024 4:24 PM

2024-01-16T16:24:27-05:00

Non-Infantry or Special Forces personnel cannot (I believe) be awarded the CIB for combat action. The Combat Action Badge was specifically designed to fill the void between the CIB & the CMB.
However, If the soldier was previously awarded the CIB for combat action while in FA 11 or 18, they aren't required to stop wearing it or other badges earned during that period of service.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2024 4:33 PM

2024-01-16T16:33:14-05:00

Here are a few exceptions to what I stated earlier:

* "Eligibility also includes soldiers or officers with an MOS other than infantry or Special Forces that hold a prior or secondary infantry or Special Forces MOS and that are assigned or temporarily attached to an infantry unit of any size smaller than a brigade."
* Retroactive awards of the CIB to Special Forces personnel are not authorized prior to 20 December 1989.
* Army soldiers possessing MOS of 18D (Special Forces Medical Sergeant) who satisfactorily perform special forces duties while assigned or attached to a special forces unit of brigade, regimental, or smaller size during any period such unit was engaged in active ground combat may be awarded the CIB.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 22 at 2024 4:38 PM

2024-02-22T16:38:25-05:00

No he can not!