How can I retroactively get my Combat Action Badge? Where can I find some assistance on this process?

SGT James Hart (Retired) — Tue, 27 May 2025 13:27:24 -0400

Is there anyone who can help me with getting my CAB retroactively?

Response by SGM Jeff Mccloud made May 27 at 2025 2:25 PM

SGM Jeff Mccloud — Tue, 27 May 2025 14:25:34 -0400

start here

https://www.hrc.army.mil/sites/default/wcmtfiles/files/24648_0.pdf

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2025 2:34 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 May 2025 14:34:52 -0400

Good luck. I've tried this a few times and each time was shot down. Every Chain I submitted thru all said that receiving IDF (46 times but who's counting?) was not a proper criteria.

Response by SPC Daniel Brown made Jun 6 at 2025 3:14 PM

SPC Daniel Brown — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 15:14:53 -0400

In some cases, the local VA can make a call on your behalf add pull your DD214 where it will state what awards you have received.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2025 1:55 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 01:55:45 -0400

Correction of Military Records
The secretary of a military department, acting through a board for correction of military records, has authority to change any military record when necessary to correct an error or remove an injustice. A correction board may consider applications for correction of a military record, including a review of a discharge issued by courts martial.

The veteran, survivor or legal representative generally must file a request for correction within three years after discovery of an alleged error or injustice. The board may excuse failure to file within the prescribed time, however, if it finds it would be in the interest of justice to do so. It is an applicant’s responsibility to show why the filing of the application was delayed and why it would be in the interest of justice for the board to consider it despite the delay.

To justify any correction, it is necessary to show to the satisfaction of the board that the alleged entry or omission in the records was in error or unjust. Applications should include all available evidence, such as signed statements of witnesses or a brief of arguments supporting the requested correction. Application is made with DD Form 149

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Jun 23 at 2025 9:10 PM

SSG Eric Blue — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 21:10:26 -0400

Best of luck on that. I've been shot at well over 500 times with rifles, handguns, and RPGs, survived mortar attacks, dodged a roadside IED that exploded, disabled an SVBIED with my M4, and defended myself hand-to-hand against three different combatants, all of which are substantiated, and I couldn't get my CAB.