SFC Mark Merino220490<div class="images-v2-count-1"><div class="content-picture image-v2-number-1" id="image-7967"> <div class="social_icons social-buttons-on-image">
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<a class="fancybox" rel="702108fd18cb85f88fb51577d6d762d8" href="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/007/967/for_gallery_v2/819971.jpg"><img src="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/007/967/large_v3/819971.jpg" alt="819971" /></a></div></div>Not all ribbons and medals are specific to military service. Case in point is the Medal for Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM). Would you support the creation of a medal to acknowledge the completion of civilian educational degrees? A numerical appurtenance could represent each completed degree level. Would this motivate individuals to pursue civilian education?Should the DOD have a medal to acknowledge civilian education level?2014-08-28T16:10:22-04:00SFC Mark Merino220490<div class="images-v2-count-1"><div class="content-picture image-v2-number-1" id="image-7967"> <div class="social_icons social-buttons-on-image">
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<a class="fancybox" rel="62931b58c4b09c134275dee8598ae798" href="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/007/967/for_gallery_v2/819971.jpg"><img src="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/007/967/large_v3/819971.jpg" alt="819971" /></a></div></div>Not all ribbons and medals are specific to military service. Case in point is the Medal for Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM). Would you support the creation of a medal to acknowledge the completion of civilian educational degrees? A numerical appurtenance could represent each completed degree level. Would this motivate individuals to pursue civilian education?Should the DOD have a medal to acknowledge civilian education level?2014-08-28T16:10:22-04:002014-08-28T16:10:22-04:00MSgt Roger Lalik220516<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No I would not support that medal. Personal/Unit decorations are awarded for military action/activity not civilian. Regardless how good the reason.Response by MSgt Roger Lalik made Aug 28 at 2014 4:24 PM2014-08-28T16:24:09-04:002014-08-28T16:24:09-04:00SGM Matthew Quick220532<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>If a medal/ribbon motivates an individual to pursue their civilian education, they're doing it for the wrong reason.Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Aug 28 at 2014 4:49 PM2014-08-28T16:49:41-04:002014-08-28T16:49:41-04:00MAJ Private RallyPoint Member220611<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Advancing your civilian education already benefits your military career. If that's not incentive enough, I doubt a ribbon would be.<br /><br />As far as recognition for those who are motivated to get their degree, it would not be a significant recognition. There are already numerous ribbons out there that are considered "gimme's", and this would just be one more piece of clutter on the uniform. I'd probably wear it, because if I didn't my ribbon rack would look small compared to my fellow officers. But I'd prefer it didn't exist.Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 6:43 PM2014-08-28T18:43:28-04:002014-08-28T18:43:28-04:00PO1 Private RallyPoint Member220711<div class="images-v2-count-1"><div class="content-picture image-v2-number-1" id="image-7978"> <div class="social_icons social-buttons-on-image">
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<a class="fancybox" rel="ac3cfa02f910d217d1c80884dacbf933" href="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/007/978/for_gallery_v2/image.jpg"><img src="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/007/978/large_v3/image.jpg" alt="Image" /></a></div></div>In the meanwhile I'll just wear this highly coveted medal (see in full shot):Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 8:13 PM2014-08-28T20:13:48-04:002014-08-28T20:13:48-04:00SSG Mike Angelo220745<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I say Kudos, and yes to the service medal. Why? The military is big on personal achievement; setting the example in higher education demonstrates personal leadership. <br /><br />The fact that Service members pursue higher education, even the GED or upgrade their ASVAB scores says a lot about their current beliefs, goals, aspirations and personal achievements. <br /><br />But...<br /><br />If the military recognizes this phenomena of higher education, toward this point of issuing a medal, then the military can grant up to 2 years leave time with the opportunity to complete their degree goals. The military does it for the officers, why not the enlisted?<br /><br />The reason is that higher education is not wired in enlisted career management fields. <br /><br />There are other options for civilian education and the recognition of these obtained goals and degrees.Response by SSG Mike Angelo made Aug 28 at 2014 8:46 PM2014-08-28T20:46:52-04:002014-08-28T20:46:52-04:00LTC Paul Heinlein220783<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No, I think it further waters down other Medals. I would suggest we probably should look at reducing the amount we already have.Response by LTC Paul Heinlein made Aug 28 at 2014 9:23 PM2014-08-28T21:23:26-04:002014-08-28T21:23:26-04:001SG Private RallyPoint Member220823<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Hell NO! I applaud those who have the desire to seek higher education while in the Army ( other branches as well), However, NO, there should not be an award hung on the uniform to represent this achievement. Higher education accomplishments are personal achievements. Promotion Boards will see it as they should, however, as a leader, I give a damn if you have a GED, HS Diploma, Associate, Bacholars, Masters Degree. I care about your ability to perform the mission you're assigned, I care about your ability to relate to and fit into the unit environment, ability to be part of a team and/or to be a Leader or good follower. Common sense and leadership does not come out of a class room. Either you have it or you don't! I have experienced too many Higher Educated Imbicles, who I would not allow to stand road guard during a PT Run! OH hell NO!Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 10:06 PM2014-08-28T22:06:02-04:002014-08-28T22:06:02-04:00MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca221135<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>That and a cup of coffee will get you far in this world.Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 29 at 2014 8:08 AM2014-08-29T08:08:34-04:002014-08-29T08:08:34-04:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member221229<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>SFC, with all do respect, I think that's a horrible idea. My award for completing civilian education was stepping out ahead of my peers and getting promoted to SSG ahead of them.Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 10:28 AM2014-08-29T10:28:35-04:002014-08-29T10:28:35-04:00LTC Private RallyPoint Member221233<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>One word. No.Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 10:32 AM2014-08-29T10:32:07-04:002014-08-29T10:32:07-04:00SGT Ben Keen221259<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>What kills me is people on here talk about how the DoD gives awards away to freely than someone suggests a new award. Why not just include the completion of the degree in a write for a PCS/ETS award? Make that write up stronger and instead of the SPC walking away with a AAM; he or she walks away from with an ARCOM?Response by SGT Ben Keen made Aug 29 at 2014 11:14 AM2014-08-29T11:14:36-04:002014-08-29T11:14:36-04:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member221290<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>3 AAs, 1 BA and working on my MBA, I think the NCOES ribbon is superfluous, You need the school to get the rank if you have the rank you have the school so why are there two indicators, one of which is pretty useless I identify it as the "The dark one towards near the I was there stuff" <br /><br />A Civilian Education Ribbon? Hell no! We already have so many awards that your average E5 looks like Patton, gets to the point that your ribbon rack has more to do with your company clerk/S1's skill than the soldiers.<br /><br />Just thought of the most humorous bullet point on the S1 NCO's NCOER "Accomplished proper filing of award forms as demonstrated by the battalion looking like damn heroes during ASU inspection"<br /><br />Really, we have gutted the award system, lets not make it worse.Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 11:49 AM2014-08-29T11:49:11-04:002014-08-29T11:49:11-04:00SSG Robert Burns221333<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>That would be the most valuable medal if you add up all the TA it takes to get it!Response by SSG Robert Burns made Aug 29 at 2014 12:21 PM2014-08-29T12:21:43-04:002014-08-29T12:21:43-04:00SSgt Gregory Guina221337<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I haev to vote no on this one. THere aer already enough ribbons and medals out there. Also to echo SGM Quick if a ribbon motivates someone to get an education they are doing it for the wrong reason.Response by SSgt Gregory Guina made Aug 29 at 2014 12:25 PM2014-08-29T12:25:18-04:002014-08-29T12:25:18-04:001SG Mark Colomb221374<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Absolutely not. I support Soldiers going the extra mile to earn a degree, but the degree is the "award". I also agree with LTC Heinlein we need to stop this process of everyone gets an award (the military equivalent of everyone gets a trophy). Every time we come up with a special award is waters down the others just a little bit, pretty soon none of the awards will mean anything.Response by 1SG Mark Colomb made Aug 29 at 2014 1:07 PM2014-08-29T13:07:46-04:002014-08-29T13:07:46-04:00PO3 Christopher Mcdonald221384<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I have this medal and would support the creation of any such medal. For the military to formally recognize and support education would be great. As most medals and ribbons everyone likes to have them and would desire to get them. The use of TA and GI Bill would increase and they were given to us for our service and we should use them. Honestly where I live Military is not highly respected because we have so many around. I get a thank you for your service but no one has ever hired me based on my military experience. The education and prior working knowledge is what got me in the door. So military personal should get their education before they get their DD214.Response by PO3 Christopher Mcdonald made Aug 29 at 2014 1:14 PM2014-08-29T13:14:49-04:002014-08-29T13:14:49-04:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member221439<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>This would not promote a reason for education in the right circumstances. Education earned for use and application within current fob fields Verses education gained for "flare" by whatever means necessary. Like SGM Quick referred this action too as a "diploma mill." This shouldn't be endorsed, almost the same concept as "everyone gets a trophy for playing."Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 2:01 PM2014-08-29T14:01:37-04:002014-08-29T14:01:37-04:00SFC Christopher Perry221517<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Negative, we don't need an award that signifies simple self development/improvement. I started working on my degree in my 40s because it was a big piece missing out of my life's puzzle. That and the fact that my boys followed my constant harping over their young lives and are both in college now. I simply could not look a hypocrite in the mirror every morning. For all the NCOs out there that constantly push their young Soldiers to pursue their civilian education without doing the same, make a note of that one.Response by SFC Christopher Perry made Aug 29 at 2014 3:24 PM2014-08-29T15:24:20-04:002014-08-29T15:24:20-04:00SCPO Private RallyPoint Member221542<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Do you get to start with medals for education completed before joining the military? Also, what is "civilian education" - does the National Intelligence University (which civilians can attend) qualify? What about education in non-degree programs?Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 3:46 PM2014-08-29T15:46:15-04:002014-08-29T15:46:15-04:00SPC Private RallyPoint Member221569<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>As much as I would like to say yes, I have to say no. My reason being is that at least in the Army (maybe just reserves) you have to have different levels of college degrees as you progress through the NCO rank structure. So anyone who aspires to be a senior NCO as I do will need atleast a bachelors degree anyways. That being said, I personally would feel strange being rewarded for something that is mandatory for me.Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 4:04 PM2014-08-29T16:04:39-04:002014-08-29T16:04:39-04:00LTC Private RallyPoint Member221611<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No. Almost all officers would get it right away and is a give-me for them. The very few exceptions are depending on OCS/direct commission requirements that year if they need to have a degree to commission. I think that any award out there should at least be as equally able to earn by anyone and not for something you had before you entered the military.Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 4:52 PM2014-08-29T16:52:31-04:002014-08-29T16:52:31-04:00SSG V. Michelle Woods221647<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I highly doubt a simple ribbon would be worth spending the hours and effort it takes to complete a degree. <br /><br />I don't see anything wrong with it considering a completed degree is a great measure of drive and persistence.Response by SSG V. Michelle Woods made Aug 29 at 2014 5:39 PM2014-08-29T17:39:17-04:002014-08-29T17:39:17-04:00CPT Zachary Brooks221695<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>If they back date them they will owe me up through a Master's and possibly another one in a year or two. The medal will do me nothing, while the degrees can help me secure a better job civilian side.Response by CPT Zachary Brooks made Aug 29 at 2014 6:26 PM2014-08-29T18:26:52-04:002014-08-29T18:26:52-04:00CPT Private RallyPoint Member221781<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>The trick is, it's not a very detailed specific medal, that OVSM, that is. It should be like 100 hours of volunteer service or something stated. What defines "outstanding?" 500 hours?Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 7:56 PM2014-08-29T19:56:42-04:002014-08-29T19:56:42-04:00SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member221819<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I don't think that a decoration is the best way to acknowledge a Soldier's effort to to purse a higher education. I do think earning a legitimate degree should result in a monetary benefit. Personally I believe that there is more to be gained from educated NCOs leading Soldiers than having a division plus of Airborne qualified personnel being paid for jump status. Not saying it's not an important asset, but educated leaders developing Soldiers adds enduring value to the force.<br /><br />On that same topic if you can earn you bachelors degree in 18 months from a computer, you probably are not prepared to perform in that field. Not saying that there is not good DL institutions available, but two discussions a week with classmates in using a fourth grade vernacular should tip you off. Just saying.Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 8:50 PM2014-08-29T20:50:26-04:002014-08-29T20:50:26-04:00CPT Private RallyPoint Member221967<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>They do give out an something for having a Degree. It called a Commission. I got one. If that isn't a good incentive I don't know what is.Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 10:58 PM2014-08-29T22:58:56-04:002014-08-29T22:58:56-04:00SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member222173<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I personally hate putting more "bling" on my uniform for every little thing I've done. (Do I really need a ribbon and devices to show that I've completed bootcamp, or NCOES when I wear the uniform and rank? I think not.) A ribbon to say that I've finished a degree would not sway me, as I truly wouldn't want to wear it. However, being told that a college education is worth something towards my military career (e.g. promotions) would encourage me. In my case, I completed my degree only because I wanted continued forward movement, and I didn't see that coming from the military, so I found another way.Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2014 6:14 AM2014-08-30T06:14:23-04:002014-08-30T06:14:23-04:00LCDR Bart Denny222174<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I'm all for service members pursuing civilian education. I believe such education produces tangible benefits in professional performance, not to mention great personal satisfaction. That said, I think this is an idea that would produce tons of unintended consequences, and is a terrible motivation for education. In the Navy, at least when I was an enlisted Sailor, the Associate's Degree I earned got me points for advancement. The Bachelor's Degree got me my commission. The Master's Degree was expected, if I hoped to ever get promoted beyond O-4. <br /><br />So, I think there are certainly professional rewards for such education. But, I have to say, I think by the time I got out of the Navy, we were really starting to come up with some goofy ribbons and medals (I won't call out some of the ones I'm thinking of, because someone will think I'm demeaning some of the difficult assignments they represent...and I'm not...I just think achievement medals and commendation medals, etc. would have been fine recognition).Response by LCDR Bart Denny made Aug 30 at 2014 6:47 AM2014-08-30T06:47:54-04:002014-08-30T06:47:54-04:00SFC Private RallyPoint Member222184<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>That's a good start to recognition of a degree. It takes a lot of dedication, time and hard work to obtain a college degree while on active duty.Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2014 7:10 AM2014-08-30T07:10:59-04:002014-08-30T07:10:59-04:00CMSgt James Nolan222198<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No. How about one for attending 5 formations in a row? Military awards should remain military awards. Education is something to seek out for personal growth.Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Aug 30 at 2014 8:48 AM2014-08-30T08:48:10-04:002014-08-30T08:48:10-04:00MSG Private RallyPoint Member222376<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I would love it!Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2014 1:36 PM2014-08-30T13:36:57-04:002014-08-30T13:36:57-04:00MSG Sean Milhauser222380<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>As far as the Army goes, I don't believe a ribbon/medal is necessary. As other leaders have mentioned in here, it could encourage some folks to take shortcuts, etc. Again, in the Army's case, Soldiers already receive points for civilian education as they strive to achieve SGT and SSG. For the centralized boards, civilian education is tracked with the ERB, transcripts and/or degrees that have been verified and posted to a NCO's Army Military Human Resource Record (AMHRR). So with the Army, we are already recognizing those who earn college credits or degrees to a certain extent.<br /><br />Can't recall how many years ago, but there were some scandals involving certain Soldiers buying degrees from online "degree mills" and using those to further their chances for promotion. <br /><br />I concur with the opinions of many that earning a college degree has its own rewards for an individual beyond your military service. As <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="26105" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/26105-sgm-matthew-quick">SGM Matthew Quick</a> points out, it also serves as a springboard to the civilian chapters of our life stories!Response by MSG Sean Milhauser made Aug 30 at 2014 1:44 PM2014-08-30T13:44:08-04:002014-08-30T13:44:08-04:00LCDR Private RallyPoint Member222440<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Not only no, but I would also like us to re-examine our obsession with college education. It's useful if it's related to what you want to do (ie, I'd like a civil engineer to have a degree in civil engineering), but just a knee-jerk "it makes you a better person?"<br /><br />I fail to see how a Gunner's Mate Chief is better off with a degree in Art Appreciation than with a few more service schools that cost far less and take up less time.Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2014 3:06 PM2014-08-30T15:06:40-04:002014-08-30T15:06:40-04:00Capt Bill Straw222472<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>And maybe one for being able to ride a bike? No, I would not support such a ribbon. We have plenty of them already for fairly innocuous activity and adding one such as this would further trivialize the entire ribbon idea.Response by Capt Bill Straw made Aug 30 at 2014 3:46 PM2014-08-30T15:46:22-04:002014-08-30T15:46:22-04:00MAJ Private RallyPoint Member222703<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I would have to vote no on this as well. I have been enlisted and the only thing college would have helped me with at the time was promotion points and I cared little for them at the time. On the point that soldiers don't have time well I tell them " I was a full time mother, wife, worker, part time soldier and still found time to go to college." I am currently active duty working in a job that we are short handed and pull a lot of extra shifts however I am working towards my Master's degree, it is hard to do online classes and work full time. I feel that the benefits will be worth it in the end, I am looking at yet another surgery and will not be able to do direct patient care much longer. My end goal is to be a Family Nurse Practitioner, and I am using TA. Yes even officers can use this benefit. It covers about half of my tuition and I pay for the rest every 10 weeks. I think adding a ribbon will get soldiers to better themselves for the wrong reasons. My son is finding out the hard way that to get any where in todays society you need a college education.Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2014 8:42 PM2014-08-30T20:42:03-04:002014-08-30T20:42:03-04:00SFC Private RallyPoint Member223059<div class="images-v2-count-1"><div class="content-picture image-v2-number-1" id="image-8101"> <div class="social_icons social-buttons-on-image">
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<a class="fancybox" rel="d26f7d972e5f863d0372142879248b47" href="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/008/101/for_gallery_v2/image.jpg"><img src="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/008/101/large_v3/image.jpg" alt="Image" /></a></div></div>Pursuing an education is a personal choice and the reward is increased knowledge and a diploma. This isn't JROTC where we get ribbons for coming to class.Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2014 7:26 AM2014-08-31T07:26:12-04:002014-08-31T07:26:12-04:00CW3 Private RallyPoint Member223124<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I earned two associate degrees on the way to my first bachelor's degree. I then earned that bachelor's degree, and earned a second bachelor's degree prior to leaving Germany the second time. I then earned a masters degree, and former associate degrees after that. I still say hell no to this. Let it be reflected on evaluations, and be a discriminator for promotion, but that's it.Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2014 10:25 AM2014-08-31T10:25:17-04:002014-08-31T10:25:17-04:00SFC Private RallyPoint Member223188<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>The whole concept of an education medal makes no sense. I currently hold 4 degrees and will complete my Masters by the January. I was not motivated to do so by any medal or any form or recognition. I did so because one day me and the Army will part ways and when that day comes I want to be marketable in the civilian world. Servicemembers need to realize no body cares how many times you been deployed or how many ribbons you have without that piece of paper you probably will not even receive an interview.Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2014 11:54 AM2014-08-31T11:54:23-04:002014-08-31T11:54:23-04:001SG Private RallyPoint Member223340<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I don't think the medal would be a motivating factor for very many individuals. However, if it is a medal that is on the ERB and there is no blurb about optional wear then you better believe I'll wear it. This wouldn't be the reason I'm completing my education however, post military career is the reason for that. If it is made, how would that work for officers who require a degree anyway?Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2014 2:44 PM2014-08-31T14:44:02-04:002014-08-31T14:44:02-04:00CW2 Private RallyPoint Member224440<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>well.... it would certainly make butterbars feel better about their ribbon rack upon completion of training. I mean, 4 is better than 3 right?Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2014 4:40 PM2014-09-01T16:40:27-04:002014-09-01T16:40:27-04:00Maj Private RallyPoint Member230152<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Sheepskin should be reward enough. Do not need anything further.Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 6 at 2014 11:04 AM2014-09-06T11:04:38-04:002014-09-06T11:04:38-04:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member230315<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Awarding medals for civilian ed is like awarding medals to Soldiers for winning golf tournaments.<br />There is nothing selfless about this endeavor, unlike the MOVSM for volunteer work.<br />The degree is already the Soldier's award to supplement their "Wall of Wow".Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 6 at 2014 1:12 PM2014-09-06T13:12:28-04:002014-09-06T13:12:28-04:00SFC Mark Merino230361<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE don't forget that life is not the military. Even if you serve 30 years and walk on water as the perfect Marine/Sailor/Airman/Soldier/NCO/Officer, the military is but one chapter in our life. So much emphasis is placed on military achievements over civilian ones. After the military chapter of our lives closes, you find that all those military awards either migrate to a display case or into a box. Unless you know people who were military, how will they even know what ribbons stand for what? Civilian education takes a long time to amass, it's expensive, it's beyond time consuming, and it will save your tush when you try to get a job against someone who is 20 years younger than you. Should there be a ribbon to acknowledge civilian education? It doesn't matter one way or another. Is civilian education vital to be competitive? In most cases, yes!Response by SFC Mark Merino made Sep 6 at 2014 1:36 PM2014-09-06T13:36:58-04:002014-09-06T13:36:58-04:00TSgt Joshua Copeland230679<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>For the AF I would wager it would not include associate degrees since they are pretty much mandatory for SNCOs.Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Sep 6 at 2014 5:49 PM2014-09-06T17:49:07-04:002014-09-06T17:49:07-04:00SFC Nestor Nievesmoran230789<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Medals needs to maintain its integrity of value. A medal is not the answer, the answer is to the leadership they need to develop programs within their unit and time. The military is in constant change in finding ways to better our Soldiers but is is time to recognize that individuals should be brought up to the standards and not lowering the standards to meet the individual. NCODP is recognised with a Ribbon and numerical appurtenance (NOT MEDAL), it is a form to let other knows that this individual has met another level of military education. This level of education is required in order to advance in ranks. It sound like a good campaign to promote Civilian education but on the other hand it does not have the check and balance for all MOS or assignments. What it may take some MOS to earn a Master others it will only be able to earn an associate due to the high demand of responsibilities. Those that comes with a degree, do they automatically will receive a medal?Response by SFC Nestor Nievesmoran made Sep 6 at 2014 7:11 PM2014-09-06T19:11:28-04:002014-09-06T19:11:28-04:00SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member231023<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>While I appreciate how tough it is to complete civilian education while on Active Duty, but we don't need yet another medal to recognize it. Education is a personal achievement (as many here have said) and doesn't need to be put on your uniform. I have a Bachelors Degree that I earned prior to the Army. When I meet people, that almost NEVER comes up in conversation. Why should it be on your uniform? Do we really want our uniform to be an exact graphical representation of our ERB/ORB?<br /><br />On the other hand, for those pursuing Masters Degrees, as I would like to, it is even more difficult financially. Tuition Assistance only covers part of the fees for a Masters. Yes, there is the GI Bill "Top Up" program, but they require one to provide proof of enrollment prior to disbursing funds. That would mean I would have to dish out over $300 per class from my own pocket and then HOPE that the VA gets around to reimbursing me. My budget cannot absorb that. Based on the VA's performance (or lack thereof) for caring for our Veterans, I hold out little hope of ever getting any money out of the VA. So until I can afford it, an advanced degree is out of the question for me.Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 6 at 2014 10:15 PM2014-09-06T22:15:59-04:002014-09-06T22:15:59-04:00MSG Brad Sand231065<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No.Response by MSG Brad Sand made Sep 6 at 2014 10:54 PM2014-09-06T22:54:43-04:002014-09-06T22:54:43-04:00LTC Jason Mackay231143<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>The MOVSM is something that, at least for soldiers, carries promotion points. The volunteer service benefits the command either thru support of programs that enhance good order and discipline; morale and welfare; public relations with the communities we live in; or enhance quality of life for families. The volunteer hours are tracked by Army Community Service. As for the question posed, I disagree as there are academic decorations and regalia that go with those achievements, worn in the academic setting (caps, gowns, hoods, and honor society accoutrements). I would rather see medals developed to correspond to existing service ribbons (like the overseas ribbon and NCOPD ribbon). The incentives for academic achievement are placed where they should be: military education level requirements, promotion points, personal ambition, and life after the Army.Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Sep 6 at 2014 11:51 PM2014-09-06T23:51:00-04:002014-09-06T23:51:00-04:001SG Private RallyPoint Member231321<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NO MORE RIBBONS<br /><br />Cripes!<br />Can't we all agree that ribbon/medal proliferation is a scourge on professional Soldiers everywhere?<br />The only ones that benefit from this work at the MCSS store.Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2014 7:56 AM2014-09-07T07:56:00-04:002014-09-07T07:56:00-04:00LTC Private RallyPoint Member231793<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>One of the issues with giving an award for civilian degrees is the comparatibility of degrees given the way military awards are structured. If I see someone with an NCODP ribbon and it has a "3" on it, I can guess they've completed 1 and 2; not so with civilian degrees. Would someone with two years of college and 60 credits get a medal even if they didn't have an associates degree? What about terminal degrees? MD, JD, MFA, and MBA degrees are considered terminal degrees, should people with those awards get the highest civilian medal, and would that be fair to the MD who went beyond his terminal degree and earned a PhD? Would it be fair to the JD who earned his LLM? Or the MSW who earned a PhD even though it is beyond the "terminal degrees"?<br /><br />Also, how would you compare the different degree levels in different fields? An EdS, Specialist in Education, is beyond a Masters degree but not a doctorate. That leads to the treatment of graduate certificates, are they between the bachelor and masters degrees? Many veterinary and dentistry schools don't require their students to have bachelor degrees. Trade schools are civilian education, where do they rate?Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2014 5:19 PM2014-09-07T17:19:17-04:002014-09-07T17:19:17-04:00SCPO Private RallyPoint Member232142<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Take into consideration an enlisted person who earns their degree in a field they already specialize in. I would consider that the SME on any project or tasker simply because they took the time to master their field, and, in turn would earn a higher commendations for making that sacrifice. If degrees didn't matter for military service, we wouldn't have officers.<br /><br />Tango!<br />DocResponse by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2014 10:01 PM2014-09-07T22:01:21-04:002014-09-07T22:01:21-04:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member232150<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>All over the military there are combat arms SMs having strokes right now.Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2014 10:05 PM2014-09-07T22:05:41-04:002014-09-07T22:05:41-04:00SCPO Private RallyPoint Member232151<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Seriously how many service people have you seen get high personal awards for being in good with the senior leadership, I have seen plenty and I've only got 10 years in, an award such as this is unquestionable, cold hard facts, no taking others credit, no fabricating mission operations, either you do or you don't. I'm for it, not to mention it is a tool for leadership to use to better their personnel. So many awards given out for leaving home physically, where are the award for actually stressing your mind.<br /><br />Tango!<br />DocResponse by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2014 10:05 PM2014-09-07T22:05:44-04:002014-09-07T22:05:44-04:00CW2 Jonathan Kantor232414<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Absolutely not. You get a diploma and that's enough. A lot of people would look at something like this and think that they were better than another Soldier for their "2" indicating a BA over another's "1" for an AA or something like that. I don't like this at all.Response by CW2 Jonathan Kantor made Sep 8 at 2014 7:02 AM2014-09-08T07:02:24-04:002014-09-08T07:02:24-04:00CW3 Clayton C.232431<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I don't like the idea of an award for everything, which is where we're already headed. Have a look at some of the awards from heroes who served in WWI, WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. I easily have more flare than most, if you count individual awards, but the weight of the awards these warriors earned far outweigh my flare. I call it flare because we're given a medal for everything we do now. Good job on that PT score of 270, here's your AAM. Or we could just award the PT patch, you know, that thing we get for scoring over 270 anyways? Nowadays everyone gets a participation medal. Some of the uniforms I see, including my own, look ridiculous and it's all because people want to have flare. There are Medal of Honor Recipients that have 5 awards, total. I believe we are beginning to celebrate mediocrity if we support such a medal. With TA and the GI Bill, a college degree is practically handed to all of us, we only need to take that small initiative to reach out for it. Might as well start giving an award for someone who shows up every day and does his job. Oh wait... we already do, it's called a PCS award. I guess I got a little off topic here but my opinion is that college education is a personal achievement. Promotion boards on all levels see them as such and act accordingly. Of course this is only my opinion and in no way reflects the opinion of my branch, MOS, or the US Army.Response by CW3 Clayton C. made Sep 8 at 2014 7:25 AM2014-09-08T07:25:42-04:002014-09-08T07:25:42-04:00CW2 Private RallyPoint Member232442<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I wouldn't. It seems like overkill. I was always under the impression that civilian education was something you did on your own time, for your own betterment, anyway.Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 8 at 2014 7:48 AM2014-09-08T07:48:05-04:002014-09-08T07:48:05-04:00SGT Artiesa Woods233100<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>How many times are Soldiers supposed to get rewarded for their civilian education? Promotion points are already awarded for civilian education, adding a medal would just allow Soldiers to double dip by getting promotion points for that medal on top of the civilian education they have already received promotion points for. The degree is award enough, and the boost to your career through promotion points should be enough professional incentive. There is no need for a civilian education medal!Response by SGT Artiesa Woods made Sep 8 at 2014 5:38 PM2014-09-08T17:38:53-04:002014-09-08T17:38:53-04:00SSG Trevor S.233530<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div><a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="313343" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/313343-sfc-mark-merino">SFC Mark Merino</a> This sounds like a 2LT decided they didn't like being the barest chest in payday activities.Response by SSG Trevor S. made Sep 8 at 2014 10:15 PM2014-09-08T22:15:42-04:002014-09-08T22:15:42-04:00SFC Private RallyPoint Member233837<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I would support this award. I've been talked down to by more O-3s than I can count because I am "only an NCO." God forbid I might have some knowledge, learning, or education requiring critical thinking skills that I could bring to the table or discussion. Outside of the Army, I teach high school English, and requires a degree. Just because an officer chose the commissioning route does not mean that he/she has more education than the NCO. We have a ribbon for NCOES educational levels, why not one for civilian levels? AA/AS: BA/BS: MA/MS, or Ph.D/JD, it makes sense to me.Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2014 5:38 AM2014-09-09T05:38:41-04:002014-09-09T05:38:41-04:00Cpl Peter Martuneac233851<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think it'd be a great idea. It'd be just one more accomplishment that could help deserving careerists move up the ranks.Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Sep 9 at 2014 7:06 AM2014-09-09T07:06:26-04:002014-09-09T07:06:26-04:00CWO2 Shelby DuBois234060<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No.Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Sep 9 at 2014 11:01 AM2014-09-09T11:01:11-04:002014-09-09T11:01:11-04:00SSG Jacob Wiley234150<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>This obviously couldn't be for officers, since they must have a degree to obtain a commission.<br /><br />So it's an enlisted thing, which would make this "unfair". Civilian eduction, thought highly encouraged, is not mandatory. We have troopers with GEDs, HS diplomas....college has never been a must for enlisted folks. If you earn a degree - you max promotion points. There's your "at a boy" - you don't need a ribbon to show off. <br /><br />There is already an education ribbon, the NOPDR.Response by SSG Jacob Wiley made Sep 9 at 2014 12:22 PM2014-09-09T12:22:55-04:002014-09-09T12:22:55-04:00CWO2 Shelby DuBois234397<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Just give them the okay to wear their mortarboard and tassel with their dress uniforms.Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Sep 9 at 2014 3:32 PM2014-09-09T15:32:21-04:002014-09-09T15:32:21-04:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member234450<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I am a receipent of the Medal for Outstanding Volunteer Service but it was for close to 17 years of volunteering with the Civil Air Patrol and working at various command levels. This award recongized a lot of my personal time that I gave in addition to my normal job and the volunteerism.<br /><br />An award for earning a degree that was paid for though the Post 9/11 GI bill and something that is considered part of my professional development as an NCO. Not needed.<br /><br />What is needed is a Cold War Medal - not just a paper certificate.Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2014 4:07 PM2014-09-09T16:07:25-04:002014-09-09T16:07:25-04:00MSgt Charles Johnson234666<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>That's what we need, a drone medal, a education medal, a bathroom medal, a chow hall medal, a taco medal, a PLO medal.... yuuuup. No doubt about it... make them medals up and pin some more flash on the chest of wantabee-heroes.Response by MSgt Charles Johnson made Sep 9 at 2014 7:03 PM2014-09-09T19:03:32-04:002014-09-09T19:03:32-04:00MCPO Hans Brakob234868<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Next thing they'll give ribbons to Sailors for going to sea.Response by MCPO Hans Brakob made Sep 9 at 2014 9:08 PM2014-09-09T21:08:13-04:002014-09-09T21:08:13-04:00MAJ Private RallyPoint Member235683<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No. Ribbons are completely out of hand, especially in Army and Air Force. Medals should be for exemplary achievement or service and ribbons should go away.Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2014 2:23 PM2014-09-10T14:23:26-04:002014-09-10T14:23:26-04:00SFC Melker Johansson352385<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Ugh, no!!! We already have too many ribbons and medals. How about a medal for outstanding KP duty?Response by SFC Melker Johansson made Dec 2 at 2014 10:43 PM2014-12-02T22:43:46-05:002014-12-02T22:43:46-05:00SPC Private RallyPoint Member352555<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>From my perspective it would just appear as service ribbon 'inflation' that continues to make my ASU remind me of Star-Bellied Sneetches.Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2014 12:27 AM2014-12-03T00:27:16-05:002014-12-03T00:27:16-05:00MSgt Private RallyPoint Member352560<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Not a fan of mandatory higher education while I do understand the importance. Education is what seperated alot of people in EPRs, awards, and promotions. I do not agree with having a medal for volunteer or education. The AF is basically making everyone complete college so they will just be handing out a pointless medal that we will have to purchase for our blues.Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2014 12:35 AM2014-12-03T00:35:35-05:002014-12-03T00:35:35-05:00Capt Richard I P.352750<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Yeah, if there's one thing Ive always thought the military needed, it's more medals.Response by Capt Richard I P. made Dec 3 at 2014 7:46 AM2014-12-03T07:46:47-05:002014-12-03T07:46:47-05:00CPT Private RallyPoint Member352816<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No, that's what your degree is for.Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2014 8:58 AM2014-12-03T08:58:59-05:002014-12-03T08:58:59-05:00LTC Stephen C.355023<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Absurd.Response by LTC Stephen C. made Dec 4 at 2014 1:37 PM2014-12-04T13:37:44-05:002014-12-04T13:37:44-05:00Capt Brandon Charters367813<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I like the thought behind this question <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="313343" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/313343-sfc-mark-merino">SFC Mark Merino</a> , but I would prefer this wasn't a medal. Education should be on everyone's hit list as soon as they swear in. Even if you plan on staying in for 20, education is going to open hundreds of doors you didn't even know existed. This is very much a personal growth path...I'd rather keep this accomplishment on a resume rather than a ribbon rack.Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Dec 12 at 2014 7:04 PM2014-12-12T19:04:34-05:002014-12-12T19:04:34-05:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member565231<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I feel having said ribbon might create some problems among the ranks.<br /><br />I know I am one of many who joined the Military out of Senior High because I didn't want to go to college. I wanted to do something other than pay off student loans for years down the road. <br /><br />There always has been, and always will be, people in the Mitary who have a like mindset. And there are also those who have the motivation to always try to one-up their peers and would take said ribbon and rub it in the faces of others like me.<br /><br />Like most things Military related, this is great in theory, but caters to the Particiaption Trophy Generation by giving them something people for a very long time before them have lived without.Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 11:15 AM2015-04-01T11:15:52-04:002015-04-01T11:15:52-04:00COL Charles Williams570686<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No, we have too many ribbons already...Response by COL Charles Williams made Apr 3 at 2015 9:51 PM2015-04-03T21:51:09-04:002015-04-03T21:51:09-04:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member570705<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>The creation of a medal/ribbon to acknowledge civilian educational level is absolutely unnecessary. Though I do not know about the other services, the Army already awards promotion points for enlisted Soldiers with college credits/degree and a higher level education is a requirement for commissioned officers. <br />I think that individuals often place too much value on their civilian education. Civilian education does not necessary apply to military. To put it simply, having a college degree does not make you a better or more qualified Soldier. The story by MSgt Joshua Copeland is a perfect example. <br />The Guard is a place where we see conflict of this often. Due to the fact that being a Soldier in the Guard is not a full-time gig, many have college degrees required for their civilian jobs. We have many "privates" that enter the Guard during or after college. And some come with the mentality that they are a superior Soldier because of their education. It simply is not the case. In fact, the opposite can be true. Some new college graduates that join the Guard have the sense of entitlement and are poorly disciplined Soldiers as a result. There is a big difference between a SPC that earned that rank through two to four years of being a Soldier than a SPC that earned that rank simply be enlisting after graduating college. <br /><br />I believe that the medals/ribbons that we wear should reflect our military accomplishments.Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2015 10:08 PM2015-04-03T22:08:02-04:002015-04-03T22:08:02-04:00SFC Jay Needham570723<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Give me a break, A medal really??? Come on people As a recipient of a CIB, EIB, Bronze Star w/ V device, 3 ARCOM's 3 AAM's Air Assault, Airborne etc. etc. what you wear on your chest should mean something. <br /><br />Next thing you will be seeing Expert Typist badge or Combat Admin Badge.<br />There enough fluff awards out there as it is, give the a Certificate of achievement award for a 4.0 GPA MAYBE,,, but a medal????? Please <br /><br /><br />We are not talking about the boy scouts or girl scouts where you give a kid a patch for learning to tie their shoes.....Response by SFC Jay Needham made Apr 3 at 2015 10:24 PM2015-04-03T22:24:25-04:002015-04-03T22:24:25-04:00SGT Jim Z.570736<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NO there are plenty of ribbons and medals already. Plain and simple it is not a good spending of money especially in these tightening budget times.Response by SGT Jim Z. made Apr 3 at 2015 10:33 PM2015-04-03T22:33:53-04:002015-04-03T22:33:53-04:00SGM Mikel Dawson570961<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>If this was on 1 April, I'd think it was a joke!Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Apr 4 at 2015 4:05 AM2015-04-04T04:05:28-04:002015-04-04T04:05:28-04:00PO3 Brendan "Smitty" Smith571385<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No. Medals in my opinion, are handed out too freely anyway. Not combat medals mind you, there are probably many deserving actions in combat that never get awarded but, I digress. When I was in from the beginning of 97 - the end of 03, people seemingly got medals for anything and everything. I knew an E4 who had been in for three years and had multiple NAMs and JSAMs. He pushed paper and made coffee for a living. So, you went to college, so you got a master's fan-freaking-tastic, you want it to count for something on your uniform? Fine, use those credentials to further your career. Apply for Warrant, apply for OCS, but getting a degree does not rate a medal.Response by PO3 Brendan "Smitty" Smith made Apr 4 at 2015 12:50 PM2015-04-04T12:50:50-04:002015-04-04T12:50:50-04:001LT Nick Kidwell571701<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAAAA!!!<br /><br />Oh...wait...you were serious?Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Apr 4 at 2015 4:37 PM2015-04-04T16:37:57-04:002015-04-04T16:37:57-04:00TSgt David Holman571707<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No. Honestly, I think we have gotten way out of hand with our ribbons/medals, and it is starting to lessen the importance of them. Look at the number of ribbons the average E1 comes out of AFBMT with (possible for BMT Grad, Honor Grad, Expert Marksman, GWOT service, NSDM) add that one, and we would have some E1 running around with a possible 2 rows of medals... and still yet to test for promotion...Response by TSgt David Holman made Apr 4 at 2015 4:46 PM2015-04-04T16:46:56-04:002015-04-04T16:46:56-04:00SFC Dan Sorrow, M.S.571828<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No.Response by SFC Dan Sorrow, M.S. made Apr 4 at 2015 6:14 PM2015-04-04T18:14:49-04:002015-04-04T18:14:49-04:00PFC Private RallyPoint Member728448<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>As we shift to a military that has higher educational standards, this award will only represent another useless medal for showing up. In case you guys haven't been tracking, the way ahead for the enlisted is associates by E-6, bachelors by E-7 and masters by E-8/E-9. Welcome to the Army of 2022.Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2015 11:59 AM2015-06-06T11:59:17-04:002015-06-06T11:59:17-04:00SFC Jim Ruether3102181<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I guess it doesn't mean anything to me what civilian education my counter part in the foxhole has. More than likely I will find out in the normal exchange of conversation that you have when working together. I don't think it's necessary to have a medal on his chest for his college degree? Some people are so badge heavy now and may need that ribbon to complete their quest for acceptance in the world. I don't!Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Nov 18 at 2017 2:51 PM2017-11-18T14:51:33-05:002017-11-18T14:51:33-05:00SFC Francisco Rosario3102398<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I would say no. Reason being is that you get a diploma that will show what you have accomplished. Once you retire employers don't care about the awards you had while in the military, one of the few exceptions to this would be the Medal for Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM). Some employers actually know about this one, because it shows what type of volunteer time you have done in the community. I have seen this first hand.Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made Nov 18 at 2017 5:10 PM2017-11-18T17:10:15-05:002017-11-18T17:10:15-05:00CW3 Kevin Storm3102525<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>IMHO, no, I don't think it is needed.Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Nov 18 at 2017 6:11 PM2017-11-18T18:11:00-05:002017-11-18T18:11:00-05:00SFC James Massey3102636<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Being an awardee of the MOVSM (Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal), which I received for the right reasons (over 20 years of volunteer service the American Red Cross). I fully support this award and why they have it. However I do not support the awarding of any type of award to someone who completes a civilian educational degree. We already receive a ribbon and numerals for attending required military leadership schools, and your civilian education is rewarded in promotion points for E-5/E-6 board and is looked upon favorably on promotion boards for E-7-E-9, no need for an award to go along with it.Response by SFC James Massey made Nov 18 at 2017 7:18 PM2017-11-18T19:18:23-05:002017-11-18T19:18:23-05:00SMSgt Mark Gildersleeve3102656<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I was never a fan of the Good Conduct Medal, seriously you're giving me a medal for NOT getting in trouble....Response by SMSgt Mark Gildersleeve made Nov 18 at 2017 7:32 PM2017-11-18T19:32:11-05:002017-11-18T19:32:11-05:00SPC Robert Coventry3105552<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NOResponse by SPC Robert Coventry made Nov 20 at 2017 12:18 AM2017-11-20T00:18:36-05:002017-11-20T00:18:36-05:00SGT Frank Pritchett3105846<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I would rather see a Cold War Medal that has been requested but denied by congress because it is too expensive to give out. A medal for civilian education use to be rewarded as part of a promotion packet until it was removed about 10 years ago.Response by SGT Frank Pritchett made Nov 20 at 2017 6:32 AM2017-11-20T06:32:07-05:002017-11-20T06:32:07-05:00CPL Bobby McKellar3108004<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Medal for Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal? Someone from the Department of Redundancy Department names it I see... Response by CPL Bobby McKellar made Nov 20 at 2017 9:25 PM2017-11-20T21:25:44-05:002017-11-20T21:25:44-05:00SSG Dave Johnston3108138<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NO. Next question. And why would you want to clutter your chest with shiny do-dads anyhow?Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Nov 20 at 2017 10:47 PM2017-11-20T22:47:19-05:002017-11-20T22:47:19-05:00SFC Jim Ruether3109840<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NO totally uncalled for. Do they have a medal for being a BOY SCOUT leader? How about for serving on the library board? How about for completing the Mile Swim in BOY Scouts?Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Nov 21 at 2017 2:03 PM2017-11-21T14:03:02-05:002017-11-21T14:03:02-05:00SGM Bill Frazer3393636<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NOResponse by SGM Bill Frazer made Feb 26 at 2018 10:26 AM2018-02-26T10:26:14-05:002018-02-26T10:26:14-05:001LT Private RallyPoint Member3393646<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>So I get a medal for the higher degree I get? I mean, is it necessary? Soldiers need civilian ed to get promoted. I'm not against it but at the same time, I'm not jumping at the chance for more chest candy. Just something else I would have to buy.Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2018 10:28 AM2018-02-26T10:28:20-05:002018-02-26T10:28:20-05:00SSG Edward Tilton3393657<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No that is just silly. How about one for regular bowel movementsResponse by SSG Edward Tilton made Feb 26 at 2018 10:30 AM2018-02-26T10:30:32-05:002018-02-26T10:30:32-05:001SG Rob Smith4108584<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No<br />Medals are for outstanding military service and achievements. The volunteer service medal has a specific requirement as well as all Medals. Stick to the guidance and you cant go wrongResponse by 1SG Rob Smith made Nov 7 at 2018 6:06 PM2018-11-07T18:06:33-05:002018-11-07T18:06:33-05:00Sgt Jim Stephens4108871<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Isnt this why they have boot camp ribbons? What about ribbons for NCO training. Stripes on your should be enough for that. The Army has the worst bling problem of everyone. Really? A badge for learning how to do sling loads and repelling from a chopper? Why cant they have a badge or insignia to denote being amphibious qualified? Oh, its call the Eagle, Globe and Anchor.Response by Sgt Jim Stephens made Nov 7 at 2018 8:09 PM2018-11-07T20:09:06-05:002018-11-07T20:09:06-05:00CSM David Porterfield4108957<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No, pursuing and recieving an education is the reward not pursuing education to get a medal. The Army already has useless medals and ribbons. Volunteer service should be done for your own reasons not for a medal. The Army Service Ribbon which every single person has should be done away with. I also think the NCO Professional Development Ribbon should go away. Why a ribbon to show what we are expected to do to keep our jobs? Everyone is required to go so why a ribbon? Just my opinion. But definitely not a ribbon for education or as someone else pitched before a medal to show 20 years of service. We need to go with less more meaningful medals and ribbons than more free meaningless medals and ribbons. Less is more.Response by CSM David Porterfield made Nov 7 at 2018 8:42 PM2018-11-07T20:42:31-05:002018-11-07T20:42:31-05:00SP5 Dennis Loberger4109407<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NoResponse by SP5 Dennis Loberger made Nov 8 at 2018 2:51 AM2018-11-08T02:51:14-05:002018-11-08T02:51:14-05:00SGT Mark Rhodes4110384<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Absolutely ridiculous. This would be a shame to award a medal for seeking a higher education. This is someone’s who just wants more chest candy for doing nothing.Response by SGT Mark Rhodes made Nov 8 at 2018 11:33 AM2018-11-08T11:33:57-05:002018-11-08T11:33:57-05:00MSgt Michael Smith4110390<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>That's just stupid. What difference does it make? You get a cap and gown and a diploma. That's enough.Response by MSgt Michael Smith made Nov 8 at 2018 11:35 AM2018-11-08T11:35:34-05:002018-11-08T11:35:34-05:00MSgt Michael Smith4110395<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>How about a medal for switching to GEICO? Or maybe a medal for flossing?Response by MSgt Michael Smith made Nov 8 at 2018 11:37 AM2018-11-08T11:37:16-05:002018-11-08T11:37:16-05:00Cpl Jim Canning4110432<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Not all troops, because of their MOS, have the time to complete civilian courses while on active duty.Response by Cpl Jim Canning made Nov 8 at 2018 11:49 AM2018-11-08T11:49:51-05:002018-11-08T11:49:51-05:00SPC Private RallyPoint Member4110470<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I don’t think that a medal is necessary. The “medal” or acknowledgment that comes from completed a degree program is the degree itself, the points that come along with it, the promotions that come with the points. If a SM doesn’t understand the value of education and how it can set them apart not only from their military peers but from their civilian peers should they choose to get out, you don’t educate that by creating a medal. It’s not a participation trophy.Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2018 11:59 AM2018-11-08T11:59:44-05:002018-11-08T11:59:44-05:00CW5 Roger Jacobs4110545<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No, I would not support a medal for civilian education. The decision to pursue higher education is generally recognized through consideration for promotion And, quite often, is a requirement for promotion in the officer and Warrant Officer ranks. The military already provides plenty of incentives to pursue higher education. We don't need a medal for this.Response by CW5 Roger Jacobs made Nov 8 at 2018 12:20 PM2018-11-08T12:20:59-05:002018-11-08T12:20:59-05:00MSgt Steve LaFata4110633<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No.Response by MSgt Steve LaFata made Nov 8 at 2018 12:57 PM2018-11-08T12:57:09-05:002018-11-08T12:57:09-05:00SSG Ron Raade4110723<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No we have to many medals now. Medals need to mean something. If they don't why have have it. Global War on Terror service, Army Service are a couple I didn't need. I understand Campaigns but service nope don't need itResponse by SSG Ron Raade made Nov 8 at 2018 1:42 PM2018-11-08T13:42:48-05:002018-11-08T13:42:48-05:00SPC Gary Welch4110762<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>This is ridiculous in my opinion they should do away with the college thing in the military or make a reg that says you can't use it till your 8 yr mandatory service is over I got so sick and tired of soldiers complaining about I have to go to school and crap like that. I had a friend of mine that was a recruiter and if a potential recruit came in and the first thing they ask about is college he told them turn around and leaveResponse by SPC Gary Welch made Nov 8 at 2018 1:55 PM2018-11-08T13:55:20-05:002018-11-08T13:55:20-05:00CPT Jeff Robinette4110763<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>What a waste of time and effort. When I sit back and remember the when I served in USAEUR we were not eligible for the National Defence Service Medal. Likewise, a Cold War Service Medal was designed but never approved.<br />Oh yes lest I forget I'm still waiting on the ARCOM I never got.<br />The Army already has a Schools award. We don't need another.Response by CPT Jeff Robinette made Nov 8 at 2018 1:57 PM2018-11-08T13:57:21-05:002018-11-08T13:57:21-05:00SFC Private RallyPoint Member4110773<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I can think of about a dozen ribbons we should do away with and none that we should create. A specialist with one deployment looks like a Third World general these daysResponse by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2018 2:02 PM2018-11-08T14:02:28-05:002018-11-08T14:02:28-05:00SFC William Dinwiddie4110782<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NopeResponse by SFC William Dinwiddie made Nov 8 at 2018 2:05 PM2018-11-08T14:05:49-05:002018-11-08T14:05:49-05:00PO1 Ray Barley4110809<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Absolutely not. Speaking for only myself, I have a bachelor's degree, two masters degrees, a Ph.D., an engineering certificate, and a post-graduate foreign language diploma. Never have I felt a need to display this on my uniform. Anyone interested in my resume can check my LinkedIn profile. However, when I was in uniform all I truly wanted people to see was an American veteran.Response by PO1 Ray Barley made Nov 8 at 2018 2:18 PM2018-11-08T14:18:01-05:002018-11-08T14:18:01-05:00WO1 Mike Dwyer4110824<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I wouldn't want one.Response by WO1 Mike Dwyer made Nov 8 at 2018 2:28 PM2018-11-08T14:28:37-05:002018-11-08T14:28:37-05:00SSG Julian Nicholson4110922<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Absolutely not!Response by SSG Julian Nicholson made Nov 8 at 2018 3:17 PM2018-11-08T15:17:29-05:002018-11-08T15:17:29-05:00SN Jay Perry4110940<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Son and brother of retired Navy officers. Usn vet 6 years. It is pretty obvious when speaking to anyone of any educational level. Within two sentences what they've studied in what they know. a metal is not necessary for something like that and just adds one more pretty piece of ribbon on uniforms these days that are often covered with three four or five rows of fruit salad plus qualification badges.Response by SN Jay Perry made Nov 8 at 2018 3:34 PM2018-11-08T15:34:27-05:002018-11-08T15:34:27-05:00SSG Curtis Vaughn4110948<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No that education is worth promotion pointsResponse by SSG Curtis Vaughn made Nov 8 at 2018 3:39 PM2018-11-08T15:39:45-05:002018-11-08T15:39:45-05:00SPC Private RallyPoint Member4111006<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Not that I can comment, but there’s allready too many medals, and the ones that deserve them never get them. Adding another BS medal for college to a WARRIORS uniform is goofy. I generally dislike medals awarded outside of deployments and training.Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2018 4:05 PM2018-11-08T16:05:19-05:002018-11-08T16:05:19-05:00SFC Ron Culver4111181<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Heck NO. There are enough BS medals and ribbons already.Response by SFC Ron Culver made Nov 8 at 2018 5:03 PM2018-11-08T17:03:52-05:002018-11-08T17:03:52-05:00CSM John Mead4111295<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>This is completely asinine. No ifs, buts, or by the ways. Volunteer work is just that, accomplish of a task or deed is reward in itself. If I had this award available when I was in, I'd have no room left for appurtenences. It's kind of like a participation trophy.Response by CSM John Mead made Nov 8 at 2018 5:44 PM2018-11-08T17:44:01-05:002018-11-08T17:44:01-05:00PO3 Ross Walsh4111449<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NoResponse by PO3 Ross Walsh made Nov 8 at 2018 6:50 PM2018-11-08T18:50:00-05:002018-11-08T18:50:00-05:00PO1 David McNeill4111516<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Absolutely not. Get your education for yourself. Medals aren’t what emwe serve or served for.Response by PO1 David McNeill made Nov 8 at 2018 7:10 PM2018-11-08T19:10:02-05:002018-11-08T19:10:02-05:00SP6 Norman Berndt4111590<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Promotion points are or were awarded for education as are awards and decorations don't double them up.Response by SP6 Norman Berndt made Nov 8 at 2018 7:43 PM2018-11-08T19:43:37-05:002018-11-08T19:43:37-05:00SGT Justin Singleton4111603<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I have an undergrad, grad degree, and currently working on a PhD. I think ribbons for these is absolutely idiotic.Response by SGT Justin Singleton made Nov 8 at 2018 7:47 PM2018-11-08T19:47:34-05:002018-11-08T19:47:34-05:00MSG Danny Mathers4111626<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No, don't they have enough ribbons already? I have seen Zoomies with so many ribbons they rival a Chinese General with the highest being equal to an ARCOM.Response by MSG Danny Mathers made Nov 8 at 2018 7:54 PM2018-11-08T19:54:38-05:002018-11-08T19:54:38-05:00LTC Private RallyPoint Member4111631<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think that what ever motivates a soldier to preform should be considered. Awards are already scrutinized to the point of paralyzation. Why not? It wouldn’t hurt anyone to give a soldier a pat on the back for extremely hard work. We already give awards for much lessResponse by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2018 7:57 PM2018-11-08T19:57:30-05:002018-11-08T19:57:30-05:00MSG Don Jones4111637<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No. I completed my BS when I was an E-5 on the old Army Bootstrap program in 75. My first MS on the GI Bill in 85. I was a E-6. Then went on to collect enough grad hours for two more MSs Then was recommend for a PhD program at Mason in DC. I was an E-8 on an O-9 staff and had work on the SoD and POTUS level. That was my rewardResponse by MSG Don Jones made Nov 8 at 2018 8:02 PM2018-11-08T20:02:56-05:002018-11-08T20:02:56-05:00PFC Adam Murray4111691<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No. <br />You want a medal? Earn it by being the Standard. Exceed it. Excel at your mos.<br />Anything outside of that, you suck, and do not deserve one.Response by PFC Adam Murray made Nov 8 at 2018 8:44 PM2018-11-08T20:44:41-05:002018-11-08T20:44:41-05:00SSgt Boyd Herrst4111709<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I con’t need that.. I got an Assoc Applied Sci. Degree in Culinary-Rest. Mgt. I’m out of Service now. WhenI was in I encouraged the cooks on my team to use their CCAF(Comm Col. Credits) to Assist in going to college. Why repeat classes. Some had taken college courses and the AF added them to their CCAF credits they had already.. it cuts hours out of getting that degree. Put it on a plaque on their wall or a shadow box.. maybe on a rack on their off duty blazer jacket..Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Nov 8 at 2018 8:50 PM2018-11-08T20:50:36-05:002018-11-08T20:50:36-05:00CW2 Larry Loughlin4111780<div class="images-v2-count-1"><div class="content-picture image-v2-number-1" id="image-280837"> <div class="social_icons social-buttons-on-image">
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<a class="fancybox" rel="90fe74bd2866afcc31d2ad21de14c7e8" href="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/280/837/for_gallery_v2/4b5533b9.jpg"><img src="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/280/837/large_v3/4b5533b9.jpg" alt="4b5533b9" /></a></div></div>How about this one?Response by CW2 Larry Loughlin made Nov 8 at 2018 9:27 PM2018-11-08T21:27:17-05:002018-11-08T21:27:17-05:00SPC Robert DeVolld4111820<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>My Associates Degree didn't help me any in the Army (would've had extra rank through Civil Air Patrol anyway), and hasn't helped me since I got out. No one would hire me for anything other than entry level, food service, or general labor jobs. Planning on reenlisting once I get back into military regs. I don't plan on pursuing my education any more.Response by SPC Robert DeVolld made Nov 8 at 2018 9:48 PM2018-11-08T21:48:37-05:002018-11-08T21:48:37-05:00SGT Robert Hawks4111826<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NoResponse by SGT Robert Hawks made Nov 8 at 2018 9:51 PM2018-11-08T21:51:36-05:002018-11-08T21:51:36-05:00SSG Russell Myers4111828<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>What in Zuses butthole is this bullshit. This is like “i was a Boy Scout”. Who gives a fuck. Military awards are for accomplishments im the military. Not civilan participation awards. What happned to my Army!!!!<br /><br />SSG Myers Russell D. Ret.Response by SSG Russell Myers made Nov 8 at 2018 9:53 PM2018-11-08T21:53:10-05:002018-11-08T21:53:10-05:00SP5 Hank Vandenburgh PhD4111834<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No.Response by SP5 Hank Vandenburgh PhD made Nov 8 at 2018 9:56 PM2018-11-08T21:56:23-05:002018-11-08T21:56:23-05:001LT Private RallyPoint Member4111986<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Who would want to wear it is the question.Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2018 11:47 PM2018-11-08T23:47:43-05:002018-11-08T23:47:43-05:00MAJ James Hastings4111993<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NO...for god sakes we aren't the Boy Scouts of America!Response by MAJ James Hastings made Nov 8 at 2018 11:56 PM2018-11-08T23:56:21-05:002018-11-08T23:56:21-05:00SSG Martin Petersen4111997<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Absolutely not. You get promotion points for education that is good enough. Besides, the degree you earn is your award.Response by SSG Martin Petersen made Nov 8 at 2018 11:59 PM2018-11-08T23:59:05-05:002018-11-08T23:59:05-05:00SSgt Paul Murray4112017<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>If you compare ribbons received in WWII, Korea, or even Vietnam I noticed there is a big difference than in today's. When I got out after 8 years I had 11 ribbons wimhich was quite a bit back then compared to now where it appears that you get one for making it through the chow line.Response by SSgt Paul Murray made Nov 9 at 2018 12:17 AM2018-11-09T00:17:56-05:002018-11-09T00:17:56-05:00SPC Gary Welch4112028<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>But what I want to know everybody on here is talking about this degree and that degree when you are sitting in a foxhole or taking a hill or doing your military job what good is that degree going get you not jacks**t maybe toilet paper in a pinchResponse by SPC Gary Welch made Nov 9 at 2018 12:31 AM2018-11-09T00:31:10-05:002018-11-09T00:31:10-05:00SGT Zac Roberts4112036<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>If anyone here gave a shit about medals they’d stop giving medals based on rank. I’ve seen it and out done dudes by miles with bronze stars but based on policy of rank I’m not even eligible. Get fucked O’s and senior enlisted if you think that makes our military better. With respect.Response by SGT Zac Roberts made Nov 9 at 2018 12:40 AM2018-11-09T00:40:25-05:002018-11-09T00:40:25-05:00SGT Private RallyPoint Member4112041<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NoResponse by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 12:46 AM2018-11-09T00:46:17-05:002018-11-09T00:46:17-05:00SFC Michael Robison4112043<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Is this so officers can try and catch up to the amount of medals their NCO’s have? Lol... seriously because they do a lot of staff time...Response by SFC Michael Robison made Nov 9 at 2018 12:47 AM2018-11-09T00:47:16-05:002018-11-09T00:47:16-05:00SSG Christopher Horton4112488<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No, as it gives you promotion points.Response by SSG Christopher Horton made Nov 9 at 2018 6:42 AM2018-11-09T06:42:33-05:002018-11-09T06:42:33-05:00PO1 Private RallyPoint Member4112493<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Absolutely not.Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 6:48 AM2018-11-09T06:48:01-05:002018-11-09T06:48:01-05:00SPC Rick LaBonte4112499<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think medals are given out too easily nowadays. No, I don’t think that one should exist! Also, I have three Army Achievement awards, two are from the units I supported(I was on a maintenance support team) and I’m flattered by those and humbled that the CO of the unit I was assigned to thought that highly of my team in each instance. However, the third one was issued to me by my battalion CO for a FT Irwin training exercise, my feelings on that one is it cheapens the ribbon! I left the Army a Spec4 with one 5 month combat tour yet I have more medals than my grandfather who obtained the rank of E6 fighting from the Dday beaches till VE Day!Response by SPC Rick LaBonte made Nov 9 at 2018 6:51 AM2018-11-09T06:51:59-05:002018-11-09T06:51:59-05:00SFC Private RallyPoint Member4112627<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Surely this is a question off of a satire site. An award for higher civilian education? I thought they already had that, but it was called a degree.<br />The MOVSM some may argue is a fluff award, however, like any award it is a commanders call as to whether to award or not to award. Yes, I have this particular award and it wasn't awarded for just a single thing but rather a group of things over a multi-year period for local high profile things that I had done off-duty. At that time the award authority was at the GO level so it was scrutinized by a bunch of folks before it showed up in my records as being approved. So, in that regard, I dont feel that the MOVSM is a fluff award, but that is just my view.Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 8:00 AM2018-11-09T08:00:42-05:002018-11-09T08:00:42-05:00CW3 Todd Girdner4112713<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>How about a I did what I joined the military for!<br />My peers and I volunteered for Military Service, then volunteered for Airborne School, then Volunteered for Ranger School, then volunteered for Special Forces, then volunteered for MFF, Then volunteered for Combat Diver, then volunteered for multiple deployments to hazardous duty AOs. <br />Now thats some Outstanding Volunteer Service!Response by CW3 Todd Girdner made Nov 9 at 2018 8:24 AM2018-11-09T08:24:10-05:002018-11-09T08:24:10-05:00PO2 Nasser Montes4112791<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Why would you need a metal to personally better yourself. How I understood it, that these medals and ribbons are provided as recognition of a job well done, for doing you job maybe a bit more above and beyond your duties. We don’t expect them, but we are gracious enough when we are awarded them. We don’t lobby for them like the Oscars, we just do our jobs I. The most professional manner, and also strive to be better, by strengthening our minds thru education and keeping our bodies sound by exercising. We don’t need that type of medal to motivate us. I’d you do thing just to get a medal or recognition whether in the military or in the civilian world then you are doing it for all the wrong reasons.Response by PO2 Nasser Montes made Nov 9 at 2018 8:54 AM2018-11-09T08:54:30-05:002018-11-09T08:54:30-05:00LTC John Griscom4112801<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Not in favor of this. Not all civilian education subjects would contribute to improving a person's ability.Response by LTC John Griscom made Nov 9 at 2018 9:01 AM2018-11-09T09:01:20-05:002018-11-09T09:01:20-05:00SSG Jason Clark4112830<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>How about earning that degree for it’s own with and one’s knowledge gained from the hard work entailed in pursuit of said degree. Promotion points are already awarded for education. Higher education should not fall under “volunteer service”. Response by SSG Jason Clark made Nov 9 at 2018 9:17 AM2018-11-09T09:17:01-05:002018-11-09T09:17:01-05:00LCpl Darrell J. Farley Jr.4112834<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>And here here I thought that’s what a Diploma was for, that recognized academic achievement!!! That or a set of Butter Bars!Response by LCpl Darrell J. Farley Jr. made Nov 9 at 2018 9:20 AM2018-11-09T09:20:35-05:002018-11-09T09:20:35-05:00PFC Private RallyPoint Member4112915<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Whoa what? You get a medal for school? I started a year and a half ago so still a lot to learn , I was already planning to go anyways on my own , to me this is the equivalent to a participation trophy.Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 9:49 AM2018-11-09T09:49:08-05:002018-11-09T09:49:08-05:00MAJ Ron McCauley4112963<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>It took me 7 years to get a ribbon on my uniform. This was normal in the great unknown Cold War. Now they give them out like candy. A Sp4 can have 4 rows, so why not? Give that Sp4 a fifth row.Response by MAJ Ron McCauley made Nov 9 at 2018 10:27 AM2018-11-09T10:27:07-05:002018-11-09T10:27:07-05:00MAJ Matthew Arnold4113066<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I just checked in to see what you all were thinking. I'm glad to read what the old soldiers are writing and to see that one of the things I liked about the service is still going strong -- no fluff, no BS, just do your job well and accomplish the mission.Response by MAJ Matthew Arnold made Nov 9 at 2018 11:25 AM2018-11-09T11:25:32-05:002018-11-09T11:25:32-05:00SFC James Beason4113076<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No!Response by SFC James Beason made Nov 9 at 2018 11:32 AM2018-11-09T11:32:52-05:002018-11-09T11:32:52-05:00PO1 Scott Peterson4113110<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Now their going the route of everyone gets a medalResponse by PO1 Scott Peterson made Nov 9 at 2018 11:53 AM2018-11-09T11:53:36-05:002018-11-09T11:53:36-05:00SGT Private RallyPoint Member4113113<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NopeResponse by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 11:56 AM2018-11-09T11:56:55-05:002018-11-09T11:56:55-05:00MSG Private RallyPoint Member4113147<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Ok wait I thought this medal MOVSM was for volunteer work. Like being a firefighter are a EMT. But I guess I could be wrong. I only ever saw one person get this award. He got it for being a volunteer EMT on his time offResponse by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 12:14 PM2018-11-09T12:14:00-05:002018-11-09T12:14:00-05:00Cpl Bill Johnson4113189<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No. That is ridiculous.Response by Cpl Bill Johnson made Nov 9 at 2018 12:25 PM2018-11-09T12:25:57-05:002018-11-09T12:25:57-05:00MAJ Douglas Dopp4113209<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Absolutely no way in hell. All such a medal do is be another tool to show superiority of one over another. In combat, the Sr NCO with a GED is more valuable than 2LT with a Masters DegreeResponse by MAJ Douglas Dopp made Nov 9 at 2018 12:38 PM2018-11-09T12:38:15-05:002018-11-09T12:38:15-05:00CW3 Kevin Storm4113234<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No, because then we would have a medal for people who faked their correspondence coursesResponse by CW3 Kevin Storm made Nov 9 at 2018 12:47 PM2018-11-09T12:47:59-05:002018-11-09T12:47:59-05:00PO1 Robert George4113257<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Got enough participation medals out there.Response by PO1 Robert George made Nov 9 at 2018 12:58 PM2018-11-09T12:58:01-05:002018-11-09T12:58:01-05:00SSgt Bill Lappin4113552<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I would not support that. Another step toward everyone gets a trophy. Supposedly you join because you are a motivated individual. A piece of ribbon to decorate your uniform is a silly reason to pursue an education. Lastly, and most importantly, medals and ribbons are for recognition of military achievements.Response by SSgt Bill Lappin made Nov 9 at 2018 3:20 PM2018-11-09T15:20:13-05:002018-11-09T15:20:13-05:00CPT J B4113638<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think there are too many medals and ribbons already.Response by CPT J B made Nov 9 at 2018 3:53 PM2018-11-09T15:53:40-05:002018-11-09T15:53:40-05:00SGT Andy Jackson4113666<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I agree with the Coronel. Nothing belongs on the uniform that was not earned as a soldier. Should a troop earn a degree while serving it will be in his/her 201 where it belongs.Response by SGT Andy Jackson made Nov 9 at 2018 4:06 PM2018-11-09T16:06:03-05:002018-11-09T16:06:03-05:00PVT Jeromy Markin4113877<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Wow... now they give out particiation trophies...Response by PVT Jeromy Markin made Nov 9 at 2018 5:52 PM2018-11-09T17:52:53-05:002018-11-09T17:52:53-05:00SFC Craig Vaughn4113963<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No!Response by SFC Craig Vaughn made Nov 9 at 2018 6:15 PM2018-11-09T18:15:14-05:002018-11-09T18:15:14-05:00SFC Tom Kuleck4114057<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>The Army Achievement Medal is nothing more than an ‘atta boy’Response by SFC Tom Kuleck made Nov 9 at 2018 6:58 PM2018-11-09T18:58:58-05:002018-11-09T18:58:58-05:00PO1 Michael Moe4114059<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Fuck no!Response by PO1 Michael Moe made Nov 9 at 2018 6:59 PM2018-11-09T18:59:30-05:002018-11-09T18:59:30-05:00PFC Robert Shadwick4114094<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NoResponse by PFC Robert Shadwick made Nov 9 at 2018 7:11 PM2018-11-09T19:11:56-05:002018-11-09T19:11:56-05:00SSgt W. Aaron Gregory4114138<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>In my opinion, absolutely not. Military medals and ribbons should be awarded for things military. There shouldn't be a special ribbon for getting a bachelors's degree. Nor special pay. Nor a special shooting badge that looks like a scroll with a wreath around it for master's degrees. The next thing after medals for degrees, is medals and ribbons for a specific hurricane you made it through, or for being a guest on a specific cruise liner that sank at sea. Please, let's not dumb down the purpose of military decorations. If you want to stand out, worry more about your performance and your group's combat readiness. And, FYI guys and gals... education does NOT make you smarter, or more intelligent. It makes you more educated. Get your decorations the good old-fashioned way. Earn them, instead of creating them. Again, just my opinion.Response by SSgt W. Aaron Gregory made Nov 9 at 2018 7:31 PM2018-11-09T19:31:06-05:002018-11-09T19:31:06-05:00SFC Greg Bruorton4114169<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No. That's for annotation in the person's 201 file--where it belongs.Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made Nov 9 at 2018 7:42 PM2018-11-09T19:42:57-05:002018-11-09T19:42:57-05:00Maj John Bell4114193<div class="images-v2-count-1"><div class="content-picture image-v2-number-1" id="image-281052"> <div class="social_icons social-buttons-on-image">
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<a class="fancybox" rel="dd1e16df7eaddba67aa92b71fafa5615" href="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/281/052/for_gallery_v2/9e8e21ee.jpg"><img src="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/281/052/large_v3/9e8e21ee.jpg" alt="9e8e21ee" /></a></div></div>You never know how much is enough, until you've had too much.Response by Maj John Bell made Nov 9 at 2018 7:50 PM2018-11-09T19:50:39-05:002018-11-09T19:50:39-05:00MSG Clinton Brown4114279<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Hell no they should be spending the time it takes to get all that education to learning to shoot and fight if they want an education in other than fighting skills go to college not in the army now all the upper chain of command wants everyone to have a doctorate to get promoted I believe this is wrong have them doing marshal arts boxing Ranger school get them more opportunities to do real marksmanship training instead going once every 6 months or so to qualify not really spending time to really learn to really train on shooting skillsResponse by MSG Clinton Brown made Nov 9 at 2018 8:22 PM2018-11-09T20:22:28-05:002018-11-09T20:22:28-05:00SFC Carlos Cruz4114303<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Is wrong for anyone to think a medal is a solution to anyone life, especially in that military. No there shut never make a medal for education level.Response by SFC Carlos Cruz made Nov 9 at 2018 8:30 PM2018-11-09T20:30:08-05:002018-11-09T20:30:08-05:00CW4 John Wheatley4114513<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>You should already have graduation certificates ,maybe you could put them ? WTF does civilian education have to do with the military ethos ?Response by CW4 John Wheatley made Nov 9 at 2018 10:12 PM2018-11-09T22:12:53-05:002018-11-09T22:12:53-05:00SSG Paul Mulvany4114542<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think it could help others to persue advanced degrees: “ If that idiot can get an MBA anyone can!”Response by SSG Paul Mulvany made Nov 9 at 2018 10:28 PM2018-11-09T22:28:52-05:002018-11-09T22:28:52-05:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member4114633<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Screw that’s. Isn’t it bad enough soldier get an award every time they PCS. Serious you get an MSM if you ha e a certain rank and PCS.Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 11:05 PM2018-11-09T23:05:27-05:002018-11-09T23:05:27-05:00SGT Ted Bauer4114782<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>YesResponse by SGT Ted Bauer made Nov 10 at 2018 1:01 AM2018-11-10T01:01:23-05:002018-11-10T01:01:23-05:00SP5 David Bennett4114786<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>There already exist an award for such actions of achievement, (personal development) the AAM. Not all awards require the action to be of military nature.Response by SP5 David Bennett made Nov 10 at 2018 1:07 AM2018-11-10T01:07:38-05:002018-11-10T01:07:38-05:00SPC Travis Grizzard4114796<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NoResponse by SPC Travis Grizzard made Nov 10 at 2018 1:26 AM2018-11-10T01:26:16-05:002018-11-10T01:26:16-05:00SFC Private RallyPoint Member4114798<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think that the 2nd LT rank is enough. The awards system is already broken.Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2018 1:29 AM2018-11-10T01:29:47-05:002018-11-10T01:29:47-05:001SG Frank Walker4114852<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NoResponse by 1SG Frank Walker made Nov 10 at 2018 3:03 AM2018-11-10T03:03:07-05:002018-11-10T03:03:07-05:00PFC Romeo Ryans4115028<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>So we're learning new degrees of spitting on and disrespecting the hardened MEN and WOMEN who have put on this uniform by awarding merit badges? I hate to say it but I remember when our ribbons and badges ment something. Gave us pride. Now it seems like their just merit badges given to children for participating.Response by PFC Romeo Ryans made Nov 10 at 2018 6:55 AM2018-11-10T06:55:30-05:002018-11-10T06:55:30-05:00SSG Dave Rogers4115162<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Actually we do have an award for getting higher levels of education it is called promotion, but awards like Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (not Medal for Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal) do have an important part of military culture. Since you picked this medal as an example of doing the right thing for the wrong reason let me focus on that. <br /><br />SGM Quick stated that if a medal motivates an individual to do something that they are doing it for the wrong reason, but lets be real, the military structure is based largely around doing a good job and receiving a medal for it.<br /><br />Got a 100% on PT here is a badge<br />Got a Outstanding on Brigade Inspection here is an AAM<br />Gave a good report to the Commander here is a Coin<br />Graduated top of your class here is an ARCOM<br />Got Soldier of the Year here is an ARCOM, Coin, Certificate and 3 days off<br />Carried the Colors for an event here is a CSM Certificate<br />YOU GET THE DRIFT<br /> <br />While it shouldn't be your sole reason for doing something, as we would like to believe that people do not seek gratitude from helping others, it is a motivation none the less, and we all like to be thanked and know that the work that we are doing means something to someone other than ourselves. <br /><br />As a member of the Armed Forces we are meant to be part of our communities and not just in times of emergency. There are those who put on the uniform who understand that and those that don't. In the past you only received an aide to civil authority like the Humanitarian Service Medal while on orders during an emergency or disaster, but what about those service members that go above and beyond and commit to their communities with their whole heart? Do they not desire to be recognized for it? And if it encourages more to do it, is that not a good thing?<br /><br />There are service members who want to go to war because they want a certain status, or medal. There are people who join because the uniform is a status or symbol. Again the military culture is do things to receive a medal. So should we do away with all medals and ribbons because they can motivate someone? Truthfully there are many service members who do not take advantage of going to school while they are in, and many actually regret it when getting out, so I say encourage away. <br /><br />By the way I received my first MOVSM for raising 25,000 dollars for an orphanage while stationed in Korea, I started raising the money before the medal was announced and did not do it for anything other than I wanted to help the orphans, but when my commander put me in for the medal and I received it, it gave me a kick to do more at a time when I was going through a lot.Response by SSG Dave Rogers made Nov 10 at 2018 8:06 AM2018-11-10T08:06:36-05:002018-11-10T08:06:36-05:00SGT Mark Moen4115197<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Dumb, good intention but that leads to a bad placeResponse by SGT Mark Moen made Nov 10 at 2018 8:23 AM2018-11-10T08:23:56-05:002018-11-10T08:23:56-05:00CSM Andrew Perrault4115249<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Hell no! They get a degree that's their medal put a frame around and put on your love me wall. Education degrees already motivate folks it's called promotion points and rank advancement. Who thinks up this crap?Response by CSM Andrew Perrault made Nov 10 at 2018 9:00 AM2018-11-10T09:00:30-05:002018-11-10T09:00:30-05:00SPC Dakota Stafford4115417<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No, if you pursue educational opportunities that's to benefit yourself, there shouldn't be a medal to get joe to participate don't we already have enough issues in todays society with participation awards...?Response by SPC Dakota Stafford made Nov 10 at 2018 9:58 AM2018-11-10T09:58:06-05:002018-11-10T09:58:06-05:00CW3 Harvey K.4115435<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>We do not mingle academic degrees with military rank, (a custom I am shocked to see often overlooked here on Rallypoint) not even in the Medical Corps. CPT Jim Jones, USA may be Jim Jones, M.D. or Dr. Jim Jones, in the civilian world, but that M.D. is not part of his signature block in the Military world. <br />There is no necessary dependency between civilian education and military rank, and to my hidebound,old-school way of thinking, that is how it should be.<br />I had the honor of working with a CW4 who went on to take a commission as CPT, and later retired as LTC. His formal education was no more than High School Graduate, but he had talents and abilities that he brought to bear on his duties with great success.Response by CW3 Harvey K. made Nov 10 at 2018 10:04 AM2018-11-10T10:04:47-05:002018-11-10T10:04:47-05:001SG Cliff Mullen4115626<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>That is just about as foolish a concept as the Army Service Ribbon and the NCOPD ribbons; at least those two relate directly to service. There comes a point when the ribbon bar becomes a pain in the backside. There is no purpose to about half the ribbons and medals I got in my 27 years, and this looks to be one more thing to have to make space for when doing a DA photo.Response by 1SG Cliff Mullen made Nov 10 at 2018 11:00 AM2018-11-10T11:00:07-05:002018-11-10T11:00:07-05:00SFC Gonzalo Garza4115671<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NO!!!Response by SFC Gonzalo Garza made Nov 10 at 2018 11:20 AM2018-11-10T11:20:02-05:002018-11-10T11:20:02-05:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member4115697<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>This is why awards are taken as a joke nowadays.Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2018 11:33 AM2018-11-10T11:33:46-05:002018-11-10T11:33:46-05:00PO1 Nelson Fox4115750<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NoResponse by PO1 Nelson Fox made Nov 10 at 2018 11:46 AM2018-11-10T11:46:15-05:002018-11-10T11:46:15-05:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member4115767<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Volunteering and civilian education are 2 different things. So you really can't compare them at all.Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2018 11:53 AM2018-11-10T11:53:14-05:002018-11-10T11:53:14-05:00SFC(P) Richard Warren4115855<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No. Absolutely and unconditionally, no.<br /><br />Nobody should be forced to display their educational level on their chest. I don't want my soldiers to know that I have a BA while another PSG or leader only has an AA or none beyond highschool. <br /><br />Likewise, I don't want my soldiers to know that one of my team leaders has a PhD while their PSG has a BA.<br /><br />This type of medal would only serve to be divisive and subversive to the chain of command.Response by SFC(P) Richard Warren made Nov 10 at 2018 12:36 PM2018-11-10T12:36:27-05:002018-11-10T12:36:27-05:001SG Stephen Burgess4115865<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Never confuse education with intelligence. Some of the truly dumbest Soldiers I ever met were the most educated. It wouldn't represent much more than how many classes an individual sat through. How would you signify who went to harder schools or would online diploma mills rank has highly as Harvard and West Point?Response by 1SG Stephen Burgess made Nov 10 at 2018 12:45 PM2018-11-10T12:45:39-05:002018-11-10T12:45:39-05:00Maj Paul Wengert4115943<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NOResponse by Maj Paul Wengert made Nov 10 at 2018 1:33 PM2018-11-10T13:33:30-05:002018-11-10T13:33:30-05:00CPT Robert Boshears4116020<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>If you even have one of the everchanging uniforms... of which I don’t, why add more medals? My medals are quite expensive... if only to be buried in them. What about GED, High School grads... does the same politicians who change the uniforms get a cut?<br /><br />I will go out like a friend of mine... who died on Halloween... passing out candy and drinking a beer. He was cremated and spread over the Mojave desert... so no one would step on his rear end twice. Do you think the few pounds of medals, and other “pretties” mattered?Response by CPT Robert Boshears made Nov 10 at 2018 2:07 PM2018-11-10T14:07:39-05:002018-11-10T14:07:39-05:00CW4 Jim Shelburn4116039<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I am NOT in favor of this. The military is not middle school or scouting. RidiculousResponse by CW4 Jim Shelburn made Nov 10 at 2018 2:22 PM2018-11-10T14:22:41-05:002018-11-10T14:22:41-05:00SPC John Wear4116065<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Hell no. Higher education helps as you move up the ranks. May as well award you medals for getting promoted.Response by SPC John Wear made Nov 10 at 2018 2:37 PM2018-11-10T14:37:35-05:002018-11-10T14:37:35-05:00SFC William Huse4116179<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Just another award for almost all officers since the majority have a college degree. Meaningless award. Would not support it and wouldn't want it awarded to me. Many can't afford college, that leaves them out.Response by SFC William Huse made Nov 10 at 2018 3:35 PM2018-11-10T15:35:17-05:002018-11-10T15:35:17-05:00SPC Jose Vidrotiru4116280<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Don’t belong in the militaryResponse by SPC Jose Vidrotiru made Nov 10 at 2018 4:40 PM2018-11-10T16:40:44-05:002018-11-10T16:40:44-05:00SPC Jim Martin4116284<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I was just happy with the promotional points. If people don’t value education for its own benefit, they won’t do it anyway.Response by SPC Jim Martin made Nov 10 at 2018 4:41 PM2018-11-10T16:41:33-05:002018-11-10T16:41:33-05:001SG Mark Reed4116299<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Sounds like a great idea, maybe this would motivate troops to use their education centers and benefits more often.Response by 1SG Mark Reed made Nov 10 at 2018 4:49 PM2018-11-10T16:49:53-05:002018-11-10T16:49:53-05:00CSM John Nichols4116343<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I don’t feel there should be an award for higher education. That can be reflected on their NCOER. NCOs should definitely push themselves and their Soldiers to pursue higher education but we get an award for almost anything these daysResponse by CSM John Nichols made Nov 10 at 2018 5:08 PM2018-11-10T17:08:04-05:002018-11-10T17:08:04-05:00CMDCM Dave Seitz4116526<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>CMDMC(SW/CC),<br />I agree that civilian education level/achievements should NOT be recognized via a medal to be worn on a uniform. Those achievements are recognized via the diploma presented at the commencement and hung on the wall. I also agree with the previous statement that if an individual is motivated to achieve higher education so they can wear a medal they're doing it for the incorrect reason.Response by CMDCM Dave Seitz made Nov 10 at 2018 6:19 PM2018-11-10T18:19:02-05:002018-11-10T18:19:02-05:00CPT Charles Emery4116681<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Sure, right after the participation award? How about a medal for passing your PT test? The award you get for furthering your education is the knowledge you gain and how you apply it to your career (also the diploma).Response by CPT Charles Emery made Nov 10 at 2018 7:44 PM2018-11-10T19:44:28-05:002018-11-10T19:44:28-05:00Capt Daniel Goodman4116789<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I obviously perceive your logic, however, though I comprehend your reasoning, certainly, just simply doubt it'd ever happen, honest...it was an interesting question, though....Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Nov 10 at 2018 8:51 PM2018-11-10T20:51:01-05:002018-11-10T20:51:01-05:00SFC Dale Karr4116922<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Education is professional development, the diploma is sufficient enough.Response by SFC Dale Karr made Nov 10 at 2018 10:06 PM2018-11-10T22:06:12-05:002018-11-10T22:06:12-05:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member4116933<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No. Stop it.Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2018 10:11 PM2018-11-10T22:11:58-05:002018-11-10T22:11:58-05:00MSgt Private RallyPoint Member4117182<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I feel higher education should get you a pay raise, sort of like how people with second langues get a stipend.Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2018 1:31 AM2018-11-11T01:31:06-05:002018-11-11T01:31:06-05:00SMSgt Lawrence McCarter4117352<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think there are already enough medals out there, where would it stop ? Perhaps medals for all sorts of training certifications, High test scores, thee list could be endless and in the end make the medals meaningless. The last thing We need is more do dads to stick on our uniforms. My pursuit of a college degree had nothing to do with any medals or even thoughts of them. I wore the service ribbons on uniforms it was required, if it wasn't required then I didn't wear them. Granted the ribbons can show ones service history but We don't need so much that it would take minutes and not just seconds to figure that out. I'm more interested in where You have been and what You have done than what courses of education You took and display awards upon Your person for. In the case of applying for jobs, assignments etc then the total package would be something to look at, then I'm interested is seeing the whole person and their total qualifications on paper not so many decorations You look like a Christmas tree.Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Nov 11 at 2018 5:17 AM2018-11-11T05:17:35-05:002018-11-11T05:17:35-05:00Cpl Mark A. Morris4117417<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Good morning SFC,<br />When I finished my degree through the Dept. of the Navy, I received a secondary MOS. At the time, I did not know it. So, there was that. It did not cross my mind a medal was in order.<br />To me, I was able to communicate and express myself on paper more thoroughly. I found myself trying to interact and learn how to have a stronger team, or be a stronger team member.<br />Marines are push button. Meaning, do, or die. But, that is not 100% accurate. <br />Does an on the ground Marine NCO communicate with a fix wing aircraft in order to place ordnance in the correct area? How about talking to a Senior NCO over the radio to place HE? Did the Senior work on his education?<br />Education is very important. I do not know if it is worthy of a Medal. I do believe it is recommended to be smart and know your MOS in our military. One does not always need an advanced degree to accomplish the mission. I think it can help. But, I also think it matters what an individual is like around others. How they might teach, or share knowledge. <br />Small group of humans can be deadly. A small smart group of humans are more deadly. See trip wires, IED's, beautiful secret KGB female agents, etc...<br />Great question SFC.Response by Cpl Mark A. Morris made Nov 11 at 2018 6:01 AM2018-11-11T06:01:07-05:002018-11-11T06:01:07-05:00SGT Randall Smith4117492<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>A degree is fine but doesn’t mean jack when it comes to leadership or ambition. I was in a barracks room in Germany with 17 other men. Eight of the men were college grads. They were also PFC’s just complaining and marking time. I was also a Private then. When I was a Sargent 14 months later they were still PFC’s and Spec. 4’s working for us. I had 16 hours of college credit at that time.Response by SGT Randall Smith made Nov 11 at 2018 7:04 AM2018-11-11T07:04:26-05:002018-11-11T07:04:26-05:00CW2 Private RallyPoint Member4117837<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Who cares? If this makes you so upset that you have to use exclamations and capitalize your words, you have entirely too much of your identity wrapped up in this uniform. I couldn’t care less about what kind of awards or certificates the Army hands out. Nothing earned by someone else is going to “water down” my achievements. I’ll earn what I earn and put it in a box when I’m done. At which point, they’ll be nothing more than decorations and stories to tell my grandkids. If an award encourages people to excel, why not give it to them?Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2018 9:32 AM2018-11-11T09:32:46-05:002018-11-11T09:32:46-05:00SFC Ronald Hebert4117851<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>If it makes one appear to be a hero why not?Response by SFC Ronald Hebert made Nov 11 at 2018 9:37 AM2018-11-11T09:37:00-05:002018-11-11T09:37:00-05:00SP5 Dennis Hively4117950<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NoResponse by SP5 Dennis Hively made Nov 11 at 2018 10:08 AM2018-11-11T10:08:26-05:002018-11-11T10:08:26-05:00Sgt Daniel Mountin4117974<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Audie Murphy is spinning in his graveResponse by Sgt Daniel Mountin made Nov 11 at 2018 10:16 AM2018-11-11T10:16:01-05:002018-11-11T10:16:01-05:00SFC Jose Collazo4118115<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NoResponse by SFC Jose Collazo made Nov 11 at 2018 11:35 AM2018-11-11T11:35:01-05:002018-11-11T11:35:01-05:00SFC Private RallyPoint Member4118169<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>That just sounds stupid!Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2018 12:11 PM2018-11-11T12:11:25-05:002018-11-11T12:11:25-05:00SFC Martin Reddy4118331<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NoResponse by SFC Martin Reddy made Nov 11 at 2018 1:41 PM2018-11-11T13:41:20-05:002018-11-11T13:41:20-05:00SFC Private RallyPoint Member4118508<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Not just no, but he'll no. Education helps with rank. We already hand out awards like candy.Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2018 3:26 PM2018-11-11T15:26:47-05:002018-11-11T15:26:47-05:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member4118529<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Are you F'ing kidding me? No, just no. That could be one of the dumbest idea I've heard yet.Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2018 3:37 PM2018-11-11T15:37:20-05:002018-11-11T15:37:20-05:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member4118554<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I have one. Should have two. Its not well known to even submit them. Its nice to have and doesnt cheapen shit. What cheapens medals is giving them to the fuckers with a little rank that literally disnt do anything but their jobs. Rank has few privileges but those that award medals for bravery and heroism to those that did nothing but what every fucking E5 and below does more than even them is what the problem is.Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2018 3:52 PM2018-11-11T15:52:59-05:002018-11-11T15:52:59-05:00SFC Charlie Broadus II4118622<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No! I agree with the other comments, if you want a education great! But a medal for personal improvement again noResponse by SFC Charlie Broadus II made Nov 11 at 2018 4:40 PM2018-11-11T16:40:59-05:002018-11-11T16:40:59-05:00SGT Eric Vazquez4118633<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>What? LolResponse by SGT Eric Vazquez made Nov 11 at 2018 4:46 PM2018-11-11T16:46:58-05:002018-11-11T16:46:58-05:00PO1 Nicholas Kowalski4118653<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>It is worth considering a medal for such an accomplishment. The top comment made by SGM Matthew Quick says that if a ribbon is the motivation, it is the wrong reason. Plenty of decisions made in our lifetime are made for the wrong reasons but can still have positive outcomes. Take the story of the Navy SEAL who tried out for BUD/S to support his friend; he made it and his friend did not. The nation got a Navy SEAL because a man enlisted for the wrong reasons. That SEAL later became a highly respected member of the community. <br />Thucydides said, "The society that separates its scholars from its warriors will have its thinking done by cowards and its fighting by fools."<br />A medal is worth considering.Response by PO1 Nicholas Kowalski made Nov 11 at 2018 4:56 PM2018-11-11T16:56:06-05:002018-11-11T16:56:06-05:00SSG Rob Michael4119034<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I disagree for obvious reasons, not every service member would be able to obtain such an award; so that could actually hurt unit morale and cause division within an organization with those that have and those that do not. Retired NCOResponse by SSG Rob Michael made Nov 11 at 2018 7:56 PM2018-11-11T19:56:19-05:002018-11-11T19:56:19-05:00PO2 Mark Boone4119101<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>That's like a participation trophy for children!Response by PO2 Mark Boone made Nov 11 at 2018 8:55 PM2018-11-11T20:55:19-05:002018-11-11T20:55:19-05:00LTC Sidney Moore4119136<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I would not approve of a Medal for Civilian education. Doesn't serve a military purpose and it's silly!Response by LTC Sidney Moore made Nov 11 at 2018 9:15 PM2018-11-11T21:15:32-05:002018-11-11T21:15:32-05:00SPC Private RallyPoint Member4119155<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I have done a lot of volunteering while in the military but never for a medal. When offered to be given evidence for volunteering, I would decline because my volunteer service is for God and myself, not for a medal.Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2018 9:27 PM2018-11-11T21:27:53-05:002018-11-11T21:27:53-05:00CW4 Scott Hyde4119562<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I believe some is bored and found a hornets nest to poke. Kind of pointless but funny to watch.Response by CW4 Scott Hyde made Nov 12 at 2018 5:25 AM2018-11-12T05:25:00-05:002018-11-12T05:25:00-05:00LTC Private RallyPoint Member4119978<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No.<br /><br />If you want a medal for that, we have issues. That’s not even a medal, that’s a “merit badge.”Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2018 8:51 AM2018-11-12T08:51:20-05:002018-11-12T08:51:20-05:00LTC Private RallyPoint Member4120223<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Maybe they could have little gold star devices for academic achievement, and an apple device for the teacher's pet.Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2018 10:43 AM2018-11-12T10:43:23-05:002018-11-12T10:43:23-05:00SSgt Skip Bothwick4120504<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Nope no way no howResponse by SSgt Skip Bothwick made Nov 12 at 2018 12:40 PM2018-11-12T12:40:09-05:002018-11-12T12:40:09-05:00MSgt Terry Ruiz4120621<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Nope how about a medal for the ppl that do all of the work while some are in class or doing homeworkResponse by MSgt Terry Ruiz made Nov 12 at 2018 1:19 PM2018-11-12T13:19:01-05:002018-11-12T13:19:01-05:00SSG Michael Medeiros4120638<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No we should not have a civilian education ribbon or medal.Response by SSG Michael Medeiros made Nov 12 at 2018 1:25 PM2018-11-12T13:25:06-05:002018-11-12T13:25:06-05:00PO2 Private RallyPoint Member4120714<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>More chest candy would be nice but it seems kind of silly. A bachelor's degree already means more exam points and the ability to apply for OCS.Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2018 1:53 PM2018-11-12T13:53:29-05:002018-11-12T13:53:29-05:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member4120806<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>To think that soldiers would dedicate so much effort towards a degree, simply to get a medal is the wrong kind of thinking. To see SGM’s making these kinds of statements is concerning. <br /><br />The medal is the Army recognizing the hard work and dedication you went through to achieve the degree. It’s the process that weeds out the medal chasers. Soldiers who go to selection just for the tab find themselves washed out rather quickly because they weren’t in it for the right reasons. But those who are, the Army rewards them with the prestige of becoming a green beret and wearing a tab. It’s a symbol of the work you did. <br /><br />A medal for achieving a degree isn’t a Soldier “medal chasing” because the process of being active duty while going to school and maintaining a decent gpa will wash you out. <br /><br />I doubt a medal is the reason a Soldier after getting back from NTC and needs to catch up on a months worth of homework, essay’s and tests he gets it done. <br /><br />But it is nice for the Army to recognize the effort and dedication it takes a young Soldier who deploys over and over while taking classes when he/she can to earn their degree. A medal is the least the Army can give when they themselves are capatlizing off the now more educated Soldier.Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2018 2:40 PM2018-11-12T14:40:30-05:002018-11-12T14:40:30-05:00PO2 Chris Sabo4120954<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Fuck No! What the Fuck is that Horse shit!Response by PO2 Chris Sabo made Nov 12 at 2018 3:43 PM2018-11-12T15:43:19-05:002018-11-12T15:43:19-05:00SPC Private RallyPoint Member4121063<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Is this where they coined the saying "So what? Whadda you want? a medal? " JK Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2018 4:25 PM2018-11-12T16:25:48-05:002018-11-12T16:25:48-05:00Maj Charles Bethell4121363<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>WTF there is already recognition for civilian education, it is call a degree and is entered in your service record. We already have enough “I participated medals and ribbons”.Response by Maj Charles Bethell made Nov 12 at 2018 6:11 PM2018-11-12T18:11:52-05:002018-11-12T18:11:52-05:001SG George Wever4121396<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Heck noResponse by 1SG George Wever made Nov 12 at 2018 6:20 PM2018-11-12T18:20:17-05:002018-11-12T18:20:17-05:00Maj Private RallyPoint Member4121443<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I thought this was a joke at first.<br /><br />And no, the military shouldn't have a medal for civilian education and that is from someone who ha a graduate degree + 15 hours towards a 2nd graduate degree.Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2018 6:37 PM2018-11-12T18:37:42-05:002018-11-12T18:37:42-05:00Capt Dennis Tague4121640<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>They keep it up they're going to look like some of those North Korean dudes with "stuff" hanging down to their knees.<br /><br />NO!Response by Capt Dennis Tague made Nov 12 at 2018 7:57 PM2018-11-12T19:57:14-05:002018-11-12T19:57:14-05:00PO2 John Chalus4121738<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No way. IMHO I Think the awards system needs to be revamped. There are too many medals. There are also medals that enlisted men would have hard time getting.Response by PO2 John Chalus made Nov 12 at 2018 8:44 PM2018-11-12T20:44:24-05:002018-11-12T20:44:24-05:00PO2 John Chalus4121750<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No way. The entire awards system should be revamped. There are too many medals to begin with. There are also many that are out of reach of junior enlisted personnel.Response by PO2 John Chalus made Nov 12 at 2018 8:46 PM2018-11-12T20:46:34-05:002018-11-12T20:46:34-05:00Maj Private RallyPoint Member4121772<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I thought the MOVSM was the most pointless award out there, until this one.<br /><br />Hell no.Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2018 9:04 PM2018-11-12T21:04:27-05:002018-11-12T21:04:27-05:00CPL David Martin4121985<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NO... That’s JROTC stuff. My son has a rack of ribbons going into his 3rd year of JROTC. I bust his balls telling him he has more awards then Gen Patton. Lol.Response by CPL David Martin made Nov 12 at 2018 10:25 PM2018-11-12T22:25:46-05:002018-11-12T22:25:46-05:00SSG Harry Jr. Peters4121986<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>My thing is you already give points for education for enlisted personnel for promotion so why do you need a ribbon. Next thing they are going to want a ribbon for cleaning there work area up.Response by SSG Harry Jr. Peters made Nov 12 at 2018 10:26 PM2018-11-12T22:26:09-05:002018-11-12T22:26:09-05:00SGT Brian Littrel4122277<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>The degree is medal enough. It would be a joke of a medal. I'm all in favor of getting your degree(s) but a medal? NO. It would go in the category of participation trophies. You have a sheepskin, you don't need a medal.Response by SGT Brian Littrel made Nov 13 at 2018 12:44 AM2018-11-13T00:44:33-05:002018-11-13T00:44:33-05:00SFC Emanuel Marino4132765<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I do not support this medal. All persons should strive for the best they can be. Education is and should be a ressponsiibiliity of all persons.Response by SFC Emanuel Marino made Nov 16 at 2018 5:29 PM2018-11-16T17:29:26-05:002018-11-16T17:29:26-05:00SPC Steve Bright4133562<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>jultimately we should ask what the medal is to signify? MOVSM shows giving to others and selfless service while a degree is standard for all officers and most senior enlisted.<br />I also agree w the CSM belowResponse by SPC Steve Bright made Nov 17 at 2018 1:08 AM2018-11-17T01:08:59-05:002018-11-17T01:08:59-05:00COL William Oseles4216281<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I was a volunteer with Boy Scouts back when the MOVSM came in and we did not report our volunteer hours as the Boy Scouts already had programs in place to recognize service.<br />As for the objections to Civilan Education not being recognized the same could be said about the NCOPD ribbon. The education is REQUIRED to get promoted so it really is an empty award. No NCO Professional Development, no more stripes.Response by COL William Oseles made Dec 17 at 2018 9:32 PM2018-12-17T21:32:36-05:002018-12-17T21:32:36-05:00SCPO William Akin4217284<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>You have got to be shitting me..<br />How in gods name did we win WW2 without all these gedunk bullshit ribbons, medals, and badges.<br />You have to carry a guide book around so you can identify whats on your newly minted Seaman's chest..<br />Don't misunderstand, I respect the Army to the nth degree, but I haven't got a clue what half the badges, tabs, cords, ribbons, stripes, and medals that adorn my Grandsons uniform are..<br />Its no wonder they preach physical fitness like they do, you have be an olympic weight lifter to don a 21 century military uniform..<br />Off rant..Response by SCPO William Akin made Dec 18 at 2018 10:46 AM2018-12-18T10:46:28-05:002018-12-18T10:46:28-05:00CW3 Private RallyPoint Member4335445<div class="images-v2-count-1"><div class="content-picture image-v2-number-1" id="image-300323"> <div class="social_icons social-buttons-on-image">
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<a class="fancybox" rel="75665b8b63d7bb410d0c468be7c8a30d" href="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/300/323/for_gallery_v2/d84e3f4.jpeg"><img src="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/300/323/large_v3/d84e3f4.jpeg" alt="D84e3f4" /></a></div></div>I’m an 8th grade drop out w/HS GED. After I decided to go back into the Army, I reenlisted as an E2. That wasn’t a big deal because I had only been an E4. That was in March 1962 still with a HS GED. 49 months later I was an SFC E7 with two ARCOMs. 24 months later I received my appointment as Warrant Office WO1, CW2 was an automatic promotion. With 2 more ARCOMs and a MSM I was selected for CW3, below the zone.All of this with only a high school GED. By The Way, I was Data Processing MOS.<br /><br />You tell me why someone a civilian higher education should get should get a special medal. When all the military wants from the Service Member is your very best 24/7 in mission that you have been given.<br /><br />At least that’s the way this old soldier sees it.Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 1 at 2019 11:59 PM2019-02-01T23:59:58-05:002019-02-01T23:59:58-05:00GySgt Keith Rininger4344524<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Not No, but Hell No.Response by GySgt Keith Rininger made Feb 5 at 2019 8:27 PM2019-02-05T20:27:05-05:002019-02-05T20:27:05-05:00GySgt Keith Rininger4344538<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Not No but Hell No. Want civilian accolades, become a civilian. Enough Military education to keep one very proficient AND will work just fine once you leave the Service.Response by GySgt Keith Rininger made Feb 5 at 2019 8:30 PM2019-02-05T20:30:02-05:002019-02-05T20:30:02-05:00SSG James Oliver Nathan Jr4638435<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>It should be used to help the Soldier get Education done just like the NCOS Schools. But If you have A BA for your Education then the U.S. Army should look at that Soldier for the Next Rank.Response by SSG James Oliver Nathan Jr made May 15 at 2019 6:10 PM2019-05-15T18:10:17-04:002019-05-15T18:10:17-04:00SFC Ricky Esckelson4638653<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NoResponse by SFC Ricky Esckelson made May 15 at 2019 7:25 PM2019-05-15T19:25:57-04:002019-05-15T19:25:57-04:00SFC Francisco Rosario4641011<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I completed my Bachelors Degree because i wanted to be an example for my children. No medal in the world that would motivate me to finish school. That has to come from within. Now the Medal for Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM), in my opinion is a worthy achievement. Because it is not about one-self, its about service to others. In the military we are told that we must have selfless service, what better way to show to exhibit that selfless service than helping others.Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made May 16 at 2019 1:00 PM2019-05-16T13:00:11-04:002019-05-16T13:00:11-04:00SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM5007089<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think this is a good idea!Response by SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM made Sep 9 at 2019 11:34 AM2019-09-09T11:34:04-04:002019-09-09T11:34:04-04:00SGT Private RallyPoint Member5364289<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Like how e-7 and above get bronze stars for doing nothing and lower enlisted get maybe an aam while deployed. Or w-7 and above get a msm and lower enlisted get a coa for a PCs award? Glad I got out.<br /><br />I don’t need a piece of material or plastic to know what I didzResponse by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 20 at 2019 6:08 PM2019-12-20T18:08:18-05:002019-12-20T18:08:18-05:00SPC John Decker5364522<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>NOResponse by SPC John Decker made Dec 20 at 2019 7:51 PM2019-12-20T19:51:23-05:002019-12-20T19:51:23-05:00SSG Harry Herres5364550<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Not unless you 're-enforce the uniforms to accept all the weight. I think anyone with 6 or more years have more medals than the joint chiefs of staff did in the 1960.Response by SSG Harry Herres made Dec 20 at 2019 8:06 PM2019-12-20T20:06:41-05:002019-12-20T20:06:41-05:00TSgt Private RallyPoint Member5364621<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Congratulations to those that have pursued higher education and achieved their degrees while in service. Awesome accomplishment. That said, absolutely not to the idea of creating another ribbon or medal. We've gotten to the point that there are too many ribbons/medals and the meaning of them is getting watered down. Let's face it, many of them are nothing more than participation trophies. That diploma is something to be proud of and should be displayed proudly in one's home. It just doesn't need to be displayed on the uniform as well.Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 20 at 2019 8:32 PM2019-12-20T20:32:14-05:002019-12-20T20:32:14-05:00Cpl Christopher Bishop5366125<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Id say No.<br /><br />Consider this...in order to really do it right, there would be at least 3 new medals, for Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate level degrees. Then we’d have to decide where each sits in terms of order of seniority/precedence.<br /><br />And then maybe we just do not bother with the junior/bachelors version, which would be reduntant on any Officers anyhow, and would only be slightly above the USAF “Boot Camp ribbon” right?<br /><br />There are already blasphemous awards, like handing those who simply hung around for 20 years a Bronze Star.<br /><br />Id also suggest that Enlisted ranks who earn a degree while serving are more noteworthy than the young officer who only went to college to avoid a war happening when they finished High School. (Class of 1994 as example? Finished HS in ‘90 and avoided Desert Storm? Not all of the new Officers then, but surely some.Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Dec 21 at 2019 10:23 AM2019-12-21T10:23:54-05:002019-12-21T10:23:54-05:00MSgt John O'Connor5370405<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No. Military medals should be only for real military reasons. Creating a medal for something like this cheapens other medals. Just as the Purple Heart was often given out for non-combat injuries during Nam cheapened the real medals for combat or near combat woundsResponse by MSgt John O'Connor made Dec 22 at 2019 6:29 PM2019-12-22T18:29:17-05:002019-12-22T18:29:17-05:00CW2 Private RallyPoint Member5372375<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Sure it would.<br /><br />Why not? Im reading a lot of, "If you are doing something for the medal, youre doing it for the wrong reason."<br /><br />Dude, my whole life has been geared towards what the achievement would be after an accomplishment. You think I'd get an MBA if it werent for the notional medal of higher salary? Or is a better salary the wrong reason?<br /><br />Would I run a Tough Mudder it it weren't for the head band? Would I stay out of jail if it werent for staying out of jail? Would I put on pants if it werent for the medal of being taken seriously?<br /><br />Make the medal, and if that means one person attains a degree for it, than great. I mean how awesome would it be to have an E7 walk around the ribbon for a Doctoral level degree?Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 23 at 2019 10:51 AM2019-12-23T10:51:20-05:002019-12-23T10:51:20-05:00MSgt Private RallyPoint Member5397734<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Maybe a ribbon, not a medal. <br />Although, thinking about it, for a while in the ANG, we had a requirement to have our CCAF Associates before being eligible for E8... so it counted for promotion. <br />It's an important point, but I feel it should have the same weight as a leadership/NCO/SCNO Academy, which is a ribbon.Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2019 12:09 PM2019-12-31T12:09:51-05:002019-12-31T12:09:51-05:002014-08-28T16:10:22-04:00