How good does an MSM (Meritorious Service Medal) look for an E-4 with 3 years of service with no airborne, air assault etc.?

If you earned it, then wear it proudly. There are some who will be jealous. Too bad.

You DID REAL GOOD!! The lowest ranking person I saw with a MSM, was an E-6.

ft Campbell pure sand , runways of sand, old buildings.If you want a permanent change of rank, your going to have to excel beyond the normal standards. go to schools , leaderships
you can do it. get more points more medals. Some of the paths to get there will not be likable.
enjoy the adventure , don’t quit. have fun

You earned it. Wear it.

In my 20 years of Naval Service, and 2 years as a Drilling Naval Reservist, It was my observation that service, service personnel and medals was a culture and service politics weighed heavy in that culture.
1. Some of the biggest and best A$$ kissers wore some of the best Non combat/non operational ribbons and medals out there, and were always "Jones'n" to achieve more. Can you say "REMF?" Example: Once upon a time... a Navy Achievement Medal <during peacetime> was a pretty big accomplishment. I went to an awards ceremony to receive an AFEM, a Navy CAR, and a 4 Star Joint Task force Ltr of Commendation <it started out as a NCM with V device.... ended up E7a and Officers got the medal/device, and us lowly E6s and below that were actually on the op who took/drew fire and took out the target(s) got the letter. Two females, an E-2 and E-3 were put in for <by a Warrant Officer> and approved for a NAM..... for completing the personal qualification standards <that every sailor was suppose to complete> in the allotted time required. In a nut shell, for doing their assigned jobs on shore duty (most Boot sailors go to a ship). Ok... I'm thinking this may be beyond some A$$ Kissing as this was before "Tailhook"
2. Some leaders, will task you with an assignment that effects all the troops, have your write up the SOP and associated documentation and plans, and then take your work, and make it their own.... as well as the kudos, atta-boys and awards that they generated.
3. Some service people will question any and all awards, especially if they feel one's not worthy. After my NSW tour of duty in Central/South America, I acquired numerous awards and medals related to combat and Joint Service. Transferring to shore duty and then other ships, there was some Junior Officer that wanted to review my service jacket.

Know this..... as a military professional, you wear your resume` which is on your uniform. Know what decorations, personal awards and ribbons you rate, as well as past awards that you may not have. It's your service and your reflection of you in that service. In other words, "Show Your $h!t... unless otherwise directed, period!"
Regards,
River Rat from the Brown Water Navy

Don't be ashamed for what I have.
Be PROUD of all UR metals, U earned them.

If I recall for the AF that medal is worth 5 point towards being promoted. And it looks very nice on your dress blues and that you did something very good and others may ask what that was for

Very good and if I recall it is worth 5 points towards getting promoted in the AF

More than half the medals you see werend earned off kneepad duty

The MSM typically goes to Senior Enlisted (I.e. Command Master Chief) and CO/XO. It will probably be questioned. A LOT.