Is wearing a combat patch required? Did you feel you earned it in a support MOS?

2016-02-13T14:26:55-05:00

I didn't feel a combat patch was a big deal, since I was just doing the same thing deployed as if I was stateside. I never saw 'combat' like infantry units. I was maintenance. Am I the only one?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2016 2:31 PM

2016-02-13T14:31:55-05:00

Still served man....you put your life at risk...you earned it

Response by LTC Curtis Madsen made Feb 13 at 2016 2:33 PM

2016-02-13T14:33:34-05:00

So you wouldn't count a FOB getting IDF? You're still in harms way even if you're not out toe to toe engaging the enemy. It's jot as sexy, but we all have jobs that support those in the fight.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Feb 13 at 2016 2:33 PM

2016-02-13T14:33:44-05:00

Always a good question. Wish I had a Good Answer. I can only comment on my Awards for Desert Storm and Desert Strike. Yes I was attached to a Unit that did picket duty on the Sea Entrances to Iraq following Desert Storm but Primarily I was there to Spy on Iran. Same with Desert Strike, Our Unit did some OPDEC Operation Deception, Faints at Iraq making them nervous before the actual launch of Missiles but primarily once again most of my shops efforts were directed against Iran. No Rhyme, No Reason. Someone did the Appropriate Paperwork, You are Authorized to wear it. Be Happy.

Response by LTC Yinon Weiss made Feb 13 at 2016 2:36 PM

2016-02-13T14:36:11-05:00

A combat patch doesn't mean you saw combat, it just means you performed your duties in a wartime environment. The vast majority of people who wear a "combat patch" were not in combat. There's no reason for you not to wear it.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2016 2:57 PM

2016-02-13T14:57:34-05:00

I absolutely hate this question.. and I hate the thought process that has made this question arise. A combat patch is earned for serving in a combat zone. It does not mean you saw combat, participated in combat, or even saw IDF. It simply means that you deployed, as I said before, to a designated combat zone.

Things it is not: Combat Action Badge

If a soldier didn't "earn" a combat patch he wouldn't have had it awarded to him. If you want an identifier for a soldier seeing combat look for the CAB/CIB. If you want an identifier for a soldier having deployed to a forward base in a combat zone look for a combat patch.

Perhaps the Army should consider calling it a "Deployment Patch" or "Hazardous Duty Patch"

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2016 3:12 PM

2016-02-13T15:12:38-05:00

The Army has identified the "combat patch" as the Former Wartime Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, for the same purpose to identify those that supported a Wartime Mission whether as a maneuver unit or its combat and service and support brethren. If you deployed regardless of your job, you have earned it.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Feb 13 at 2016 3:14 PM

2016-02-13T15:14:25-05:00

You need to get over the guilt. War is a game of chance.

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Feb 13 at 2016 3:27 PM

2016-02-13T15:27:17-05:00

No you are not required to wear your authorized SSI-FWTS which is better known as a combat patch. The vast majority of those that deploy never see "combat" and they are lucky for it.

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made Feb 13 at 2016 3:50 PM

2016-02-13T15:50:43-05:00

Remember, it is a SSI-FWS (Former Wartime Service). Did you serve in wartime? Supporting the war effort while deployed? You earned it.

You can wear any SSI-FWS patch to which you are entitled. You are NOT required to wear any. Though it may be "encouraged."

You did your job, I would wear it.

Response by SGM (R) Antonio Brown made Feb 13 at 2016 4:16 PM

2016-02-13T16:16:30-05:00

Everyone has a job to do and it is important that they do it well in order to support the big picture. Not everyone will be required to engage the enemy and that is fine. Some FOBs and COBs were attacked and others were not. Some convoys were attacked and others were not. I have told many Soldiers that because of the mission there is no need for certain units to engage the enemy offensively but that does not mean that they did not earn that right shoulder sleeve insignia for wartime service.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Feb 13 at 2016 5:12 PM

2016-02-13T17:12:41-05:00

One you don't have to worry about not being toe to toe with the enemy. Did your birds take the fight to the enemy, or rescue injured troops? Did you make sure you did the best you could for the birds and the people who flew them?

Response by SSG John Caples made Feb 13 at 2016 5:37 PM

2016-02-13T17:37:44-05:00

We didn't see combat , but we saw the after math of combat , whether you were a cook , grease monkey, or trans-po, if you were in a combat zone, for more than 90 days, you deserve to wear the combat patch. My unit was Transportation we supplied the units that were fighting with water , ammo, food , and what ever they needed. Every time I went out the wire I was risking my life and my battles life and I went on every mission since our unit hit the ground. And yes if you are asking me am I proud to wear my combat patch ''then yes I Do .

Response by MAJ David Wallace made Feb 13 at 2016 6:48 PM

2016-02-13T18:48:17-05:00

SPC Dollins, you were deployed to a wartime theater, doing the job you were trained to do. If you were a helicopter mechanic in the desert, you kept the birds flying that supported the infantry, armor, and cav units at the pointy end of the spear. As a grunt, I want to thank you for doing your job and keeping the birds flying. I have always had the utmost respect for the maintenance and support staff that supported my unit. Without your efforts that for the most part go unnoticed and seldom recognized, the guys at the front wouldn't be able to stay in the fight.
Wear that patch with pride, knowing that you did your part to support the team mission!!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2016 8:15 PM

2016-02-13T20:15:15-05:00

Yes. I questioned whether I wanted to wear mine or not when I first got back, and actually didn't for a while. I met my first squad leader, and he told me to wear it and have pride in my service. If I don't have pride in what I've done and where I've been, how am I supposed to inspire new troops as they begin their service?

Response by SSG Daniel Miller made Feb 13 at 2016 8:45 PM

2016-02-13T20:45:47-05:00

It's called the Shoulder Sleeve Insignia for Foreign Wartime Service for a reason (despite the "combat patch" label we all use being more aesthetically pleasing). If you served in wartime in a foreign country, you earned it. That being said, if you don't feel comfortable wearing it, don't wear it. By regulation, you don't have to wear any decorations or awards. Just don't discount the time you spent away from home supporting the effort.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2016 9:44 PM

2016-02-13T21:44:08-05:00

You wouldn't ask and they wouldn't have a special place for it if it didn't matter. Should it? Different question.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2016 9:59 PM

2016-02-13T21:59:50-05:00

Your out there no matter if you left the FOB or not! You earned it! Your life is important to you and others!

Response by SFC Jim Mergott made Feb 13 at 2016 11:00 PM

2016-02-13T23:00:12-05:00

Have deployed to a combat zone and putting yourself at risk and leaving your family for an extended period of time=wear the damn patch and don't feel as if you need to justify it to any "door kickers" that deployed as well.

Response by SGT Peter Williams made Feb 14 at 2016 12:48 AM

2016-02-14T00:48:23-05:00

Damn. That takes courage to say. Usually it's support MOS that always want what the Infantry Soldier earns. They always have to say-"if it weren't for us you couldn't do what you do." To which I reply,"do you know what the first job was in the US Army? Infantry, and do you know the second? Payroll, and do you know the third? Quartermaster, because in the beginning we did do it all. It worked out just fine for the time being. It was everyone else that suffered when we would have to acquisition what we needed from the locals, but no matter what we got it done."

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 2:30 AM

2016-02-14T02:30:16-05:00

Everyone plays a vital role, combat or not.
Wear it and be proud.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 7:54 AM

2016-02-14T07:54:38-05:00

A combat patch is also a statement saying you sacrificed for your country and family. You don't have to go in combat you are a soldier and serve. You should feel proud to wear a combat patch cause so many others don't or have avoided the mission. Be proud

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 9:54 AM

2016-02-14T09:54:06-05:00

If you have a CAB and wear it them you do have to wear the combat patch. But most units tell you to wear that units combat patch if you have it as a "esprit de corp" thing.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 11:08 AM

2016-02-14T11:08:51-05:00

This is an echo of the "what is a veteran?" discussion.
Army regulations are clear as to who is entitled to wear a SSI-FWS. You don't have to wear it, but watch the difference with how a Soldier with one is treated vs one without.
Yes, you did your job in a hostile fire environment, and thankfully none of that fire hit your vicinity. Thank your lucky stars and move out smartly.

Response by MAJ Javier Rivera made Feb 14 at 2016 1:48 PM

2016-02-14T13:48:33-05:00

Is up to you!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 3:29 PM

2016-02-14T15:29:54-05:00

You did your job in combat zone, supporting line companies or not you did the job that is required due to your training and you should take pride, not everybody is fit to be an infantryman and infantrymen need support to get the job done. Every MOS is part of the team!

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 3:30 PM

2016-02-14T15:30:17-05:00

For one it's not a combat patch

Response by SGT(P) Eric L. made Feb 14 at 2016 5:24 PM

2016-02-14T17:24:35-05:00

You did your job for your unit in a war, that is what the combat patch is for. I was Airborne Infantry and did a couple deployments so I get to wear the patch of the unit, but in the Infantry you have to earn the right to wear a CIB, we'll depending on the unit I guess, but that's how it's supposed to be and how it was in 173rd ABC BDE. I have multiple citations to wear the CIB, but as far as the patch goes that's unit wide.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2016 8:48 PM

2016-02-14T20:48:53-05:00

A "combat patch" does not necessarily mean bona fide combat, but that you did your job while deployed to an austere environment, where real live combat is a possibility. While not required for daily wear, it is something to take some pride in.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2016 10:24 AM

2016-02-15T10:24:18-05:00

From DA Pam 670-1: 21-17.c.
"Soldiers who are authorized to wear more than one SSI–FWTS have the option of choosing which SSI–FWTS
they will wear. Soldiers may also elect not to wear a SSI–FWTS."

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2016 11:01 AM

2016-02-15T11:01:38-05:00

Optional, but to your benefit to wear it. If you have more than one, you can choose.

Response by SSG Chris B. made Feb 15 at 2016 11:18 AM

2016-02-15T11:18:19-05:00

I always wore the first one I was issued (18th Aviation), even after my SGM in 3CAB kept telling me to replace it with the broken TV. Actually several times he removed it and put a 3id patch in its place.

Response by SGT Forrest Perez made Feb 15 at 2016 11:20 AM

2016-02-15T11:20:58-05:00

I re-enlisted the first time because I was going to get out without being deployed or (seeing combat) the second time because I loved being airborne I was a mechanic also over there (Iraq) though it's wherever they need you I was a mechanic,DHAA Seargent of the guard & in charge of detainee transport. ALL THE WAY

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2016 11:28 AM

2016-02-15T11:28:07-05:00

Call it a deplyment patch. That covers the time you were away and the environment you served in without implying actual combat.

Response by SSG Adam Winters made Feb 15 at 2016 11:37 AM

2016-02-15T11:37:48-05:00

Pogs were ALWAYS the first ones to put their combat patch on when returning back to garrison.....

Response by Lt Col Stephen Petzold made Feb 15 at 2016 12:21 PM

2016-02-15T12:21:38-05:00

Petraeus used to say when I was in Afghanistan that the combat patch was not too important unless you did not have one (or were the only one on your team without one).

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2016 12:45 PM

2016-02-15T12:45:40-05:00

How about we just quit calling it a "Combat Patch"? Call it a "Deployment Patch" and it'll clear up all the confusion. Seems easy enough.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2016 2:22 PM

2016-02-15T14:22:02-05:00

To me, the combat patch shows that when told to potentially put yourself in harms way, you did. I'm sure you had the movement of shock and fear of going like the rest of us, and you spent that time away from your loved ones. You did what many troops avoid (with every bit of pull they have). The CAB shows combat, the patch shows you were willing to... but that's just me.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Feb 15 at 2016 2:50 PM

2016-02-15T14:50:42-05:00

You go by what the Army says.

Response by PO1 RIchard Petty made Feb 15 at 2016 5:18 PM

2016-02-15T17:18:50-05:00

Wear it with pride, I have the same issue when my base in Souda Bay, Crete, Greece was awarded Kosovo Air Campaign, we did support the units that were doing the bombing of Kosovo and surrounding area. We supported aircraft and sent ordnance to that area via aircraft.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2016 6:55 PM

2016-02-15T18:55:11-05:00

Being a support MOS and having been in combat in several different types of units, I feel as though I earned my patch the same as the guys to my left and right. It is a group effort and if you have ever been in a unit where someone didn't pull their weight it drastically effects the mission all around. Don't discredit your input into the overall mission just because you are not seeing "combat".

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2016 6:56 PM

2016-02-15T18:56:41-05:00

I think the deployment patch is significant because it shows that you have been outside of the U.S. and served in a "Combat Theater" whether you saw combat or not. Personally, I would be proud to wear a patch on the right sleeve because it shows that you sacrificed time away from friends, family, civilian life/work. Deployments can be stressful for any MOS and you should be proud to display your sacrifice; ultimately the choice is yours.

Response by SGT Stephen Comereski made Feb 16 at 2016 8:14 AM

2016-02-16T08:14:18-05:00

If you left the wire to perform your job than be proud of the "Patch".. Our Maintenance company left the wire many times to fix our vehicles or to pull a vehicle out of a small canal because the road gave way on the top... So if you did any of those things then Hell Yeah!!! You deserve it!!

Response by LTC Michael Hrycak made Feb 16 at 2016 8:41 AM

2016-02-16T08:41:47-05:00

I remember when I served as a Support Platoon Leader in a Division Cavalry unit. My Truckmaster, an experienced Sergeant First Class, was a great leader and I relied on him wholeheartedly. When it came time to complete his NCOER I took out his personnel folder and went through his background. He was Airborne, Ranger, and deployed to Vietnam with the 101sth Airborne Division, as well as had earned bachelor's and master's degrees. I was not surprised because he was a man of humility. However, I asked him why he didn't wear his badges and combat patch. He replied that the regulation only requires that he wear his name, U.S. Army, and unit of assignment, and that everything else was his business.

Response by Cpl Dr Ronnie Manns made Feb 16 at 2016 9:51 AM

2016-02-16T09:51:12-05:00

Now I don't know much about patches but for me by you doing your job as well as you did, it cleared the minds of those in the forward position because you truly was watching their backs. Think about it, my focus needs to be on what is coming at me not what is coming from behind me and doing your job is support gives me that confidence to focus forward and not worry about the rear.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2016 9:59 AM

2016-02-16T09:59:22-05:00

I'm not infantry, but I've earned my patch I have performed your duties In theater just like they performed theirs.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2016 10:01 AM

2016-02-16T10:01:55-05:00

Its honestly up to you on what you choose to wear. Earned patches, tabs, and badges do not need to be worn if you choose not to. I usually do wear a patch but I rarely wear the two badges that I am authorized. Patches and badges don't make you a Soldier. The important thing is that you do your job. You are entitled to wear your patch because you were deployed to work in a support role and if you did that job to the best of your capabilities then you should not feel like you didn't earn it. We all have a role to do whether its knocking down doors, patching up bullets, or turning wrenches. Without one the others cannot succeed.

Response by COL Jim Lincoln made Feb 16 at 2016 1:44 PM

2016-02-16T13:44:04-05:00

Sp James-wear your combat patch with pride-remember that about 2/3d of any deployed force does not see direct combat,but your support made an important contribution,plus it shows you were deployed-some never even achieve that.
thanks for your service

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2016 1:59 PM

2016-02-16T13:59:22-05:00

It's not what you did, it's about where you did it .

Response by CPL Jeffery Howard made Feb 16 at 2016 2:15 PM

2016-02-16T14:15:05-05:00

Here is my Question to you while working did you have Indirect fire?

Response by SSG Jerry Eidson made Feb 16 at 2016 2:52 PM

2016-02-16T14:52:23-05:00

No it's not required, yes I feel I earned my 3 patches. Each time was a different mission, but fully earned!

Response by CPT John DeTroye made Feb 16 at 2016 3:39 PM

2016-02-16T15:39:15-05:00

As a "Cold Warrior" who served with the 2ID in Korea in '76, the 82d from 77-80, then 3AD from 80-83, I always wondered why the powers that be never awarded us with the privilege of wearing a deployment patch upon return - especially after all the 'less than peaceful' experiences in Korea. That aside, I can only respect everyone, regardless of MOS who served during the hot wars of the 90's and beyond. That recognition of your service is no less than those who spent their young lives in North Africa, Europe, or the Pacific in WW2, Korea in the never-ending war, or Vietnam.

Response by MSG SAMS1E / GCSS Prep Pishner made Feb 16 at 2016 3:42 PM

2016-02-16T15:42:23-05:00

Combat patch is optional to wear let your concise be your guide. During Desert Storm new replacements came to KKMC Saudi Arabia and were there less than a month never left the base but get to wear the combat patch and did not even get a rifle. As General Patton would say "When you are asked, What did you do in the War hope your answer is not shoveled horse shit in Kentucky.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2016 3:51 PM

2016-02-16T15:51:51-05:00

You deserved to wear your combat patch. The infantry could not do their job without support. I don't care what it is it still supports the mission. Be proud.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2016 4:00 PM

2016-02-16T16:00:04-05:00

It is not required. You earned it don't get wrapped around the word "combat" everyone has a job to do and if you deployed and did what u were asked then u did your job so u earned the patch. Totally up to you if you wear it. People that havent deployed make a bigger deal out it then those of us who have.

Response by LTC Thomas Rumsey made Feb 16 at 2016 4:03 PM

2016-02-16T16:03:48-05:00

There is no requirement to wear any award or decoration except for your DA photo. You can't really mix and match however, if you decide to wear ribbons for example, you should wear all that you've been awarded. People/soldiers get too focused on the cloth and forget that it's the memories and bonds that matter. I deployed before the Combat Action Badge was a "thing" (2003-2004). No way would I go back and ask those I deployed with to sign a 4187 so I can have a shiny badge...they've deployed several more times...I did my two years and went back to the reserves. Bottom line, it's up to you...no question you've earned it but there isn't a requirement to put it on your duty uniform.

Response by SSG Jesse Cheadle made Feb 16 at 2016 4:08 PM

2016-02-16T16:08:54-05:00

The only new thing I will add is that by wearing your patch you display to others that you were in support of combat operations. There seems to be a difference between the level of respect and attention Soldiers give between those that wear theirs and the ones that have not earned theirs yet "slick sleeves". Just a little perspective from the trenches.

Response by MAJ Bill Darling made Feb 16 at 2016 4:55 PM

2016-02-16T16:55:25-05:00

You are authorized to but not required as I understand. I myself stopped wearing awards (on the odd occasion I had to wear Class As) because I considered them essentially "perfect attendance" awards with little thought or meaning behind them. My TAC NCO at my basic course decided not to wear his CIB from Desert Storm for much the same reason as you with your combat patch. While I have the utmost respect for service members who have laid it all on the line, I've also seen plenty of inflation and increased awarding of awards and medals, from the watering down of the CIB (not to mention the creation of parallel expert badges to the EIB), to the creation of the CAB, to complaints about "not enough" MoHs, so one's perspective as to the worth of each is both relative and subjective. To me, it's a personal decision.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Feb 16 at 2016 5:11 PM

2016-02-16T17:11:05-05:00

As pretty much everyone has said, it's not a COMBAT patch, even though that's what we call it.

I also understand you were pressured to wear it. Just remember that with the exception of ceremonies, no one can MAKE you wear a combat patch - or special skill tabs either.

What you wear on your uniform is part of how you present yourself. The majority of Soldiers I have met are proud of all of their military accomplishments, and want to display every bell and whistle they can. However I have met a few who don't wear any of their bling unless they are in ASUs - for a variety of reasons. Personally, I don't wear a SSI-FWTS because it lets me choose whether or not to talk about my extensive deployment time. Having the patch on my shoulder is (for some people) an automatic conversation stater... "So, where were you deployed?" or (the worst, especially from civilians who know a little, but not a lot) "I see you've deployed. Did you kill anyone?"

Be aware that if you start a sentence with "When I was deployed..." (or downrange, in Iraq, etc.) and you are NOT wearing that patch, you WILL get funny looks. But ultimately, you know what you did or did not do. As long as you aren't wearing something you aren't authorized to wear, it is YOUR choice, and regardless of how much bluster is thrown at you, no one can make you wear it.*

*As already mentioned, SSI-FWTS CAN be required for ceremonies. It can also be required for inspections, such as ASUs "with all awards and decorations." Every rule has exceptions, and please do not attempt to print this off as justification to refuse an order which turns out to be lawful. When in doubt, refer to regulation, not to rally point.

Response by 1SG Rick Davis made Feb 16 at 2016 5:32 PM

2016-02-16T17:32:55-05:00

It should not be a requirement,. If you don't feel like you should don't put it on. But you were in a combat zone and are entitled. Your support was needed.

Response by SSG Brian G. made Feb 16 at 2016 5:44 PM

2016-02-16T17:44:30-05:00

Combat patch is just a term. Does not mean that you actually saw combat, just that you were serving with a unit during a conflict. If you were there at the the time, yes, you earned it. It's an Army of one, made up of many. That infantry grunt can't do his job without support of all kinds from meals to wheels to medics to flight crews.

Response by SSG John Jensen made Feb 16 at 2016 6:35 PM

2016-02-16T18:35:08-05:00

without spt units the Army doesn't move.

Wear it to Show it

Response by SGT Tim Fridley made Feb 16 at 2016 6:42 PM

2016-02-16T18:42:24-05:00

I am proud to wear my combat patch though I was Maint myself I ran a PLT. and kept the combat vehicles able to do the job needed for the guys actually throwing shells down range

Response by COL Robert Gaudsmith made Feb 16 at 2016 7:16 PM

2016-02-16T19:16:58-05:00

Disagree. The patch signifies you went forward. You did your duties in a war zone.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2016 7:54 PM

2016-02-16T19:54:48-05:00

I think you answered your question

Response by SSG Robert Rodgers made Feb 16 at 2016 8:07 PM

2016-02-16T20:07:32-05:00

Its not required i had uniforms with just my airborne wings eib and air assault wings

Response by SGT Jacob Bjerke made Feb 16 at 2016 9:56 PM

2016-02-16T21:56:26-05:00

Brother, I earned the C.A.B and purple heart... I would have died multiple times if it wasn't for you guys. I also went through the same struggle when I came back... I hate the purple heart, it makes me feel broken

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2016 10:14 PM

2016-02-16T22:14:24-05:00

I was having this same talk with my Solider it doesn't matter how you earned it everyone plays there part big or small your choose to wear it but if you don't I will tell you to look at AR 670-1

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2016 11:46 PM

2016-02-16T23:46:55-05:00

Not a requirement. Be proud of doing your part... and be proud of your combat patch.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2016 1:22 AM

2016-02-17T01:22:25-05:00

Weather or not you are a frontline infantry soldier your life is at risk in a deployed environment. Combat soldiers hands down have a more dangerous job. With that being said a combat soldier cannot complete his objectives with out a supply unit in the back keeping them supplied with needed gear or a mechanic keeping their vehicles in good running order. We are all doing our part to keep our team moving forward and winning battles. Dont look down on your deployment because you werent out engaging enemy with a rifle. Without you the infantry arent as effective at their job.

Response by SFC Raymond Thibault made Feb 17 at 2016 3:47 AM

2016-02-17T03:47:19-05:00

Yo, you were in a dangerous situation. You EARNED IT . Did you Volunteer or were you Drafted. ??

Response by CW3 Vernon Messer made Feb 17 at 2016 6:21 AM

2016-02-17T06:21:13-05:00

The "combat patch" recognizes a Soldier's service in a combat zone...not for performing actual direct combat operations (infantry, engineers, artillery et al). Get over your guilt and self doubt; and get in uniform with the patch on you right shoulder - Soldier.

Response by SSG Martin Reyna made Feb 17 at 2016 7:24 AM

2016-02-17T07:24:51-05:00

There is no requirement to wear it. You can not wear it if you are not authorized, but if you are authorized it is your choice if you do or not. But, do not think for one second it was not deserved... I was a 19D in my times in the Army and all we did was made possible by our support troops. I didn't see it then, but as I was getting promotions I realized that our vehicles are useless without proper maintenance, our weapons can not be fixed without and armorer, our meal would not be hot without an operating kitchen, potable water etc. etc.....

Response by SPC Paul Davis made Feb 17 at 2016 11:47 AM

2016-02-17T11:47:49-05:00

Spc. I servered from 88-96 and never deployed .But I did experience 2 events that changed my life forever.
We've all done our part.Be proud of your service.you helped save lives and changed the lives of many by your duties deployed and home.wear it with honor.it represents your hard work and devotion to your brothers/sisters.You've earned it.Spc Davis retired Army veteran .

Response by SPC Wanda Vergara-Yates made Feb 17 at 2016 12:58 PM

2016-02-17T12:58:47-05:00

Speaking as a soldier who never deployed as a result of unit assignments (along with my MOS), I believe you did earn your combat patch as long as you were deployed to a combat area because you could have seen combat at any time and had to perform your duties with that in mind. It does not matter whether or not your job changed, especially since maintenance in theater and in the rear is more closely aligned that some other jobs. For instance, MY job during "peace time" and in the rear involves a broad range of personnel management activities ranging from processing an id card to cutting orders for a good conduct medal. My job during "war time" or in a combat environment is reduced to very few things, in fact, basically TWO: casualty reports and war-time awards. However, I would be required to also work with other types of war-time tasks that are not even conducted during peace time, such as "per sitreps" or personnel situation reports at the unit level to which assigned (battalion, brigade, division or corps). The risk you would take as a maintenance technician is much higher than anything I would have been exposed to. However, we would both be at risk for a combat situation at any time, and that risk is what earns the patch. If activity finds you, then there are other ways you should be recognized. I hope this helps you feel more honored rather than unworthy to wear that patch. Thank you for your service.

Response by MAJ Patrick Hairston CISSP, AWS Certified Cloud Architect made Feb 17 at 2016 1:30 PM

2016-02-17T13:30:03-05:00

The combat patch isn't there to show bravado. It there to show you have been through the deployment process. It's about experience.

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Feb 17 at 2016 4:50 PM

2016-02-17T16:50:30-05:00

This is a question that you should ask your First Sergeant, because Tops are better suited to explain to you the proper wear of the uniform, or you can just go ahead and wear your deployment patch/combat patch.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2016 1:38 AM

2016-02-18T01:38:04-05:00

I've deployed twice and I'm only in the National Guard... I first came into the military as an 11bravo. Reclassed to an 88mike. Due to my 11 bravo background I deployed as the Cav... A lot of people judge you if you don't have a combat patch like you're not a soldier or something... It just shows how ignorant people are... I'm like come on we wear the same uniform... So when I see people look at my right arm and see no patch and don't talk to me then they're not worth my time I have nothing to prove anyways... All I care about is if you wear that uniform do you have my six??? Besides if you've deployed you should be teaching the one who didn't deploy what to expect so they dont panick... That's just me true blue

Response by SGT David Petree made Feb 18 at 2016 3:29 AM

2016-02-18T03:29:26-05:00

it you are in a combat theater you are other rise to weir that patch. weather or not you see combat . that and it looks good on the uniform.

Response by MSG SAMS1E / GCSS Prep Pishner made Feb 18 at 2016 12:08 PM

2016-02-18T12:08:41-05:00

After reading some of the comments it apears "Jody" deserves to wear a combat patch

Response by SPC Mark Griswold made Feb 18 at 2016 3:29 PM

2016-02-18T15:29:31-05:00

Don't worry about what the high-speed say. Just wear your patch, bro. You were there. It's no one's fault if you didn't get into shit while you were there. Wear your patch. You were there.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 19 at 2016 10:31 PM

2016-02-19T22:31:16-05:00

So I am a 19K M1 Armor Crewman and I was deployed three times in support of OIF. You are not required to wear your Shoulder Sleeve Insignia- Former Wartime Service by regulation. However, if you deployed with your current unit and they issued you an additional patch, your command can order you to wear it. As far as whether you earned it or not. If you served over 30 days in a combat zone then yes, you earned it. I can understand how you feel. I was awarded the CAB and PH. My injuries were not as severe as my comrades that have lost limbs and life to IED blasts and I didn't really feel like I ever earned them. I was doing my job. But as my CSM told me, you earned that and you may not appreciate it now but it matters.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 21 at 2016 10:40 AM

2016-02-21T10:40:21-05:00

I would wear it, currently all the prior service soldiers from other services are not authorized to wear any patch. As a former marine who deployed, I get a few looks when they see an empty sleeve, but a short conversation fixes that.

Response by SGT Robert Cupp made Feb 21 at 2016 4:47 PM

2016-02-21T16:47:15-05:00

Many miles and hours on the roads in Iraq sometimes taking contact, close calls with IDF. As an 88m at the time, I would say I earned my combat patches.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 22 at 2016 8:39 AM

2016-02-22T08:39:29-05:00

Considering that the proper designation for the "patch" is Shoulder Sleeve Insignia - Former Wartime Service, it is all up to the wearer, unless otherwise directed that it will be worn by authority of higher headquarters.
Now, for the folks that are entitled to display / wear more than one for different units at different times, it becomes a question of pick and choose. I tended to stick with the first unit I ever went into bad guy land with back when I was a young SPC.

Response by SSG Nick Tramontano made Feb 23 at 2016 1:23 AM

2016-02-23T01:23:24-05:00

Regular Army it might be a unit SOP. I was an Engineer when I deployed and performed a variety of combat support ops. In addition we always had convoys going from Ramadi to Baghdad all the time so I did a good amount of convoy security. On several convoys we were hit by IEDs and engaged the enemy. I am authorized 3 different patches and a Valorous Unit Award.

Response by MSG SAMS1E / GCSS Prep Pishner made Feb 26 at 2016 7:38 AM

2016-02-26T07:38:27-05:00

If I clean the bathrooms at Harvard for 8 years do I get a Masters Degree from there?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 3 at 2016 12:49 PM

2016-03-03T12:49:47-05:00

It is up to you if you want to wear it or not. I wear mine and I never really was in actual combat, even though I went outside the wire and sat through a few rocket attacks. like many others. I just lets people know I was deployed. I would wear it if I were you.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2016 5:14 PM

2016-03-26T17:14:29-04:00

SPC Dollins, we all must do our job. I was 52 D never saw combat, them soldier up front require our support. You made it possible for the Aircraft to operate. Thank you for your service Brother.

Response by SSgt Rose Ferguson made Apr 14 at 2016 1:27 PM

2016-04-14T13:27:47-04:00

I was a Security Forces member in the Air Force. At one ceremony in theater, they gave AF members combat patches as well. For 10 seconds I was happy, honored, proud. Then I saw who else was getting these patches. AF personnel trying to write us up for being out of uniform - shirts untucked or blouse off with shirt and DCUs on on our porches after a 14 hour work day. In Iraq, 130 degrees, talking. She would send her spies out to get us. She, who can't properly load a magazine into her M16. Either Msgt or Smsgt who was our first sgt.
But also, this is an Army, honorably earned patch. Not, your here, so I guess you get one too. I felt it disrespectful to those before, during and after me that earn those in the Army.
So first, honor and thank you. But then, this is passed out like candy to non deserving individuals who don't have work to do so they try to get you into trouble, others messed up our previous tower to vehicle rotation so we didn't go psychotic in the towers for 12 hours daily by our selves. With nothing to help.
Oh, and these morons put their packages on a shared drive. Lies and the tower changes were for bronze star application. He also put our convoys at risk when he would do ride alongs so he would have down range time or something. He upped those times as well and lied about what his role was. He had to be treated as a media person because he had no experience and was in our way and wasting a seat. Write ups were for 1st sgt application. Medals, medals, medals. Screw many over to make yourself look good. You can't prove it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 28 at 2016 1:10 PM

2016-04-28T13:10:48-04:00

It was called "Former Wartime Shoulder Sleeve Insignia" not a "Combat Patch" even though that is the nickname it has acquired over the years. The Army is a team made up of many different players and positions. The Infantryman putting rounds down range could not do so without the medical folks trying to keep them healthy, the transportation folks getting them and their supplies where they are needed, the supply folks getting them their supplies, the intel folks trying to make sense as to who and what they are actually delivering rounds at, the cooks trying to get them chow when they can, the ordinance folks fixing the broke stuff, the engineers building and bridging things along with trying to find things that go boom, the artillery and armor folks to back up the actual grunt boots on the ground, the aviation folks getting them and their equipment to places and providing air support via the attack helicopters and the admin types trying to handle all the paperwork associated with just being in the Army. So, if you have been downrange, your contribution and job is nothing to be ashamed of or to try and hide. The grunts and medics get the Combat Infantry and Medical Badges for a reason and I am guessing that some of the support folks get their Combat Action Badge for this same reason. But if you get the "I was there" medal / ribbon and are authorized to wear the insignia of a unit you went downrange with, wear it as you earned that right.

Response by SFC Raymond Thibault made Apr 28 at 2016 1:13 PM

2016-04-28T13:13:37-04:00

Remember this, from an Old Logistics Sergeant. I faced the same danger and fired the same weapons. I wear my Combat Patch with Pride.

Response by CPL Wilfred Roberge made May 5 at 2016 10:58 PM

2016-05-05T22:58:15-04:00

I wear mine proudly because all it would have taken was a a stray mortar and the building I worked in may have been blown up! There was an Iraqi worker in the base that was caught pacing off the distances to the housing area I lived in (just like the Vietcong guy in John Wayne's "Green Berets" who when caught was slugged in the face "hello charlie") to get coordinates to aim a mortar. Support Soldiers can become statistics too. I also did Hospital Security and saw my share of the aftermath of action so while I wasn't a grunt I wasn't isolated even though I never left the base!

Response by MSgt Darryl Holt made May 10 at 2016 10:13 PM

2016-05-10T22:13:22-04:00

I was career Air Force and I earned two patches. One with the 25ID/3BCT OEF 2003 and MNC-I OIF 2008. At the time, the units I was assigned to (Air Support Operations Squadron, TACP units) were the only ones authorized by Air Force regulations to wear Army unit and combat patches. And like some Army support personnel that commented above, I did not go outside the wire, I was never shot at, but I believed the work I did helped those that did. I will say that when I walked into an Army office to discuss business with them, once they saw my combat patch I noticed a slightly more respective tone from them. I guess the patch told them that I walked their walk.

Response by CPL Wilfred Roberge made May 14 at 2016 1:01 AM

2016-05-14T01:01:00-04:00

I have one for serving in Iraq in the Surge, My brother has one for Kuwait and Iraq in OIF-1, he doesn't however have one for his 6 monthes in Kosovo in 2000-2001 when his unit actually recieved sniper fire!!!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2016 9:56 AM

2016-05-27T09:56:57-04:00

Wearing a Combat Patch should be seen as an honor, no matter your contribution. You were maintenance without you doing your job could the warfighters do their jobs? Never downplay your contribution to your unit's mission. You should be especially proud to wear it to honor those that paid the ultimate sacrifice in performance of that mission. I wear the Big Red One and will never take it off based off of my contribution and to honor my 10 fallen comrades.

Response by SPC Brian Mason made May 27 at 2016 7:59 PM

2016-05-27T19:59:40-04:00

I disagree, Specialist. When deployed, the enemy doesn't care if you are Maintenance, Medic (like me), a cook, or paper pusher. We are less likely to get shot or hit with an IED here, compared to the frequency of a combat zone. It may be the same 'job', but the hazards are much higher.
Besides I got two different combat patches; which ID'd us to the unit we were attached to. It keeps troop movement information accurate. I saw plenty of combat during both deployments.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2016 8:34 AM

2016-06-01T08:34:57-04:00

I'm maintenance as well. We worked our asses off. Myself and my mechanics also went out on the convoys for maintenance support. If your in the environment you deserve the patch and you should wear it proudly. It means your seasoned. You did the job at home, and you did the job during combat operations. Infantry units and other combat units need support. It's a fact.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2017 11:24 AM

2017-09-17T11:24:18-04:00

The issue here is that it's not a combat patch. Wearing one has nothing to do with combat in the true sense of the word. Combat Zone does not mean combat it just means you were in a designated hostile fire zone. Even those, HOA for example, are subject to scrutiny and the is no "combat" going on.
Ok, I'm done with my rant.
Army uniforms tell a story. Your SSI and SSI-FWTS tell your story and you should be proud to wear it.

Response by PFC John Coble Jr made Feb 2 at 2018 2:30 AM

2018-02-02T02:30:10-05:00

I was honored to wear combat patch even in your support role does not make are sacrifice any less in fact it's more difficult is a thankless job and you'll always be called The Pog snowflake Hobbit because you were not a 11 Bravo

Response by SPC Greg Campbell made Mar 4 at 2019 10:16 PM

2019-03-04T22:16:23-05:00

it's not a participation patch, you earned it. wear it

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2019 1:34 AM

2019-03-06T01:34:01-05:00

Then don't wear it. That's up to you. You're not required to wear the patch or anything else on your uniform. In combat Ur tapes & rank. There are those who don't want to & those who think if your not infrantry you shouldn't. It's oh well the regs say you may wear. Which means the individual soldier has the choice. I kno soldiers who don't wear the cib or cab or other badges. Doesn't mean they didn't ear them.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2019 8:07 AM

2019-03-06T08:07:37-05:00

SPC Dollins,

I think the point is you were a part of it. I typically explain it like a cog on a wheel. I never be the wheel, I’m just the cog. But the wheel doesn’t turn unless all the cogs do their job. The wheel is Operation and the operation can’t move forward without everyone pulling their weight.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2019 6:35 PM

2019-03-06T18:35:51-05:00

It is not a “combat patch”. It is a shoulder sleeve insignia - former wartime service. If you went overseas into a war zone you have every right to wear it and should wear it.

Response by SSG Jimmy Cernich made Mar 8 at 2019 7:02 PM

2019-03-08T19:02:11-05:00

You were still in harm's way.Support units are an important factor in victory.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2020 12:48 PM

2020-02-09T12:48:14-05:00

During my first deployment my platoon was pulling outer cordon for a large Cordon and Search. I was salty about being mostly out of the fight. My 1SG at the time was riding in our vehicle and he said something that has stuck with me ever since. He said, “Don’t ever judge your impact on the fight by your proximity to it.” It’s the truth. Wear your patch with pride because the job you did was supporting the guys out front and was desperately needed.

Response by MAJ Haris Balcinovic made Feb 9 at 2020 8:39 PM

2020-02-09T20:39:11-05:00

The lingo of "combat patch" really stands for Shoulder Sleeve Insignia - Former War Time Service. (SSI-FWTS), for designated combat zones. It doesn't mean you saw combat that's what CIB, CMB, and CAB are for.
https://www.ar670.com/2018/12/21/shoulder-sleeve-insignia-former-wartime-service-ssi-fwts/

Wear of Shoulder Sleeve Insignia of Former Wartime Service - AR670.com

Soldiers who were prior members of other Services that participated in operations that would otherwise meet the criteria below are not authorized to...

Response by SGT Kevin Hughes made Feb 9 at 2020 10:27 PM

2020-02-09T22:27:29-05:00

Be proud of your Service. And anyone who tries to belittle it...they have a problem...not you. In the Military you don't even have to go to Combat to face fears you wouldn't in a Civilian Job...and in Civilian life NOT doing your job usually doesn't put someone else's life on the line. Every MOS has a purpose and a mission, and the ones who had to fight, didn't get there by walking. Someone brought their ammo, their food, and their way in...or out. And they kept those birds flying, ships sailing, tanks and trucks rolling.

And God forbid someone in Combat got wounded...the trail from the Battlefield to Walter Reed is covered with folks who saw more blood and gore than mosts battle hardened Combat Veterans---and they served too. We were a team. In Peace Time you were training for when the Sh*t hit the fan, in wartime you went into the areas where the fan was.
And thank God for all the experience men and women in all Fields who passed their hard earned experience on. Honor. Duty. Country. You covered all three.

I am Non Combat. And proud that I served. My brother is a Purple Heart Winner, and Bronze Star too...and he is proud of me. My other Brother was Navy...and kept the stuff going to Nam in ship shape (Pardon the pun) and I sat on guard duty on the Czech Border knowing they had fifty tank battalions, and we had...us. You can get scared just thinking about what could happen. Fear isn't restricted to Combat.

They just had to face their fear and carry on...and in a much smaller way...everyone of us had to do the same. Thousands of miles from home, in a country you weren't born in, doesn't speak your language, and have your customs...is a sacrifice. And that is why we all say: "All gave some, and some gave all. "

And we know the difference.

Response by SGT Tom Recupero made Feb 9 at 2020 11:51 PM

2020-02-09T23:51:16-05:00

There are lots of “slick sleeve” NCO’s these days which is crazy to me so I say wear it proudly

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made Feb 10 at 2020 12:32 AM

2020-02-10T00:32:42-05:00

Well as a peacetime Infantryman, I never really cared who wore a combat patch. To be absolutely honest and I think I speak for all Infantrymen here when I say this. It's really rarely ever what people wear on their uniform that bothers folks in the Infantry. It is the verbal portrayals and stories that come out of peoples mouths that get under some 11 series skins. Especially in the area where they are comparing themselves to Infantrymen and they never once served in the MOS. That would be hot button number one. Hot button number two is easily the attitude or prejudice that everyone in the Infantry is stupid or slow and has no real future because you have to be dumb to choose that MOS or volunteer for it (the second one I ran into constantly when I was in uniform and sometimes I wanted to punch the jerk in the face). Those two are at the top of the list. If you are not guilty of either one of those I would not worry about what you think bothers people in the Infantry because most of us have a thick skin beyond those two items.

So take the Cav Scout vs rest of world rivalry that appears to be going on among the Combat Arms MOS. It is really not the Stetson hat nor is it the Spurs that bother Infantrymen, Artillerymen, etc. It's usually the public comments that get them into hot water. I used to think it was just Infantry vs Cav Scouts but I saw on Quora there are also some Aviation folks and FISTERS as well as Engineers that are PO'd at some specific Cav Scout examples.........and it's never the uniform that sets them off, though we do sometimes kid them about it. It is always something they said in public. One of the FISTERS on quora was complaining because a Cav Scout told him they didn't need FISTERS because they already knew the FISTERS job.

Oh and I got the whole Marine Corps vs 82nd Airborne fighting rivalry figured out I think. What bothers the folks in the 82nd the most is the Marines that run around and say their Basic Training is just like what an Airborne Ranger goes though. My guess is why that specifically sticks in their craw is because it used to be a good portion of the 82nd was made up of Ranger school or RASP no-go's. I am not sure if that is still the case with the new methods or not but back when I was serving if you wanted a fist fight between a Marine and someone in the 82nd you just had to bring up the topic of initial training. The other part is a Marine and paratrooper both think they are special and if you put them together they try to out special one another....lol. :) Whew, suddenly I feel like Dr. Phil on Oprah....lol. :)

Response by SSG Harry Herres made Mar 14 at 2020 5:51 PM

2020-03-14T17:51:53-04:00

Your rear was still subject getting kicked. If you were there you can wear it with pride. Some never go ever.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2020 8:24 PM

2020-03-14T20:24:30-04:00

If you don't feel something when earning any patch, award, or badge, then you shouldn't be in this profession. Regardless of what others think (i.e. those that say: "you're a badge chaser"). Look, if you went after that badge or award and earned it, fuckin wear it. If your chest is filled with things you earned and others try and talk shit, they are just mad they didn't get those opportunities. And you really know who is to blame? Their prior or current leadership for not explaining the value in what it means to earn something and to be proud of that.

Response by PVT Rocky Susshine made Dec 15 at 2020 4:16 PM

2020-12-15T16:16:26-05:00

CIB in Vietnam. 3 months in field combat unit.