How can I go about getting a GWOTSM?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Sep 2017 21:47:15 -0400

I have read 600-8-22, 2-19(a) and was recently was deployed during OIR. However upon noticing it wasn't on my ERB, I asked S1 and she proceed to basically ask why I had it and who gave it too me. I explained that when I left AIT, my PLT SGT had a big ordeal and told us all we could wear it. Seeing how I couldn't while in training. Should I try and see if my BC will grant the medal? Or forget it.

Response by SGT Danny Martinez made Sep 14 at 2017 9:50 PM

SGT Danny Martinez — Thu, 14 Sep 2017 21:50:23 -0400

It should be awarded to you upon returning from an OEF, OIF, or OIR overseas deployment. That's how I got mine.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2017 9:51 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Sep 2017 21:51:00 -0400

Read the Reg. to determine if you in fact qualify. If so, you should have documents in your Perms to support it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2017 10:05 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Sep 2017 22:05:50 -0400

You -obviously- qualify for it.

If it's not on your ERB and you have no award document...it's probably the most obvious and easiest award any S1 could do. Award is an award, and you've earned it.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2017 10:24 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Sep 2017 22:24:21 -0400

Considering the GWOTSM is an automatic award given after one month in the fleet for us Marines (probably one month in your first unit as well), somebody clearly messed up. Just swing by S-1 and they'll fix it.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2017 10:08 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 10:08:00 -0400

If you, by regulation, are authorized the GWOT, then really all that needs to happen is an MFR written and submitted. Sounds like your S1 is making a mountain out of a mole hill.

Response by SPC Casey Ashfield made Sep 15 at 2017 11:42 AM

SPC Casey Ashfield — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 11:42:48 -0400

It sounds like the same thing that happened at my BCT/AIT cycle. We were all given the GWOTSM because we "enlisted during a time of war (GWOT) and therefore qualify for it." Is what we were told. Even though the HRC website says IET is not valid criteria for GWOTSM, we still got it anyway. As long as you qualify for it because of OIR, it should be easy paperwork for the S-1 shop to have it added as part of your end of tour awards. My GWOTSM didn't show on my paperwork until after OEF anyway.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Sep 15 at 2017 11:52 AM

CPT Jack Durish — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 11:52:47 -0400

Anyone who can write so proficiently in jargon and acronyms while citing regs deserves it