Should the DOD have a medal to acknowledge civilian education level?

SFC Mark Merino — Thu, 28 Aug 2014 16:10:22 -0400

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?

Response by MSgt Roger Lalik made Aug 28 at 2014 4:24 PM

MSgt Roger Lalik — Thu, 28 Aug 2014 16:24:09 -0400

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 SGM Matthew Quick made Aug 28 at 2014 4:49 PM

SGM Matthew Quick — Thu, 28 Aug 2014 16:49:41 -0400

If a medal/ribbon motivates an individual to pursue their civilian education, they're doing it for the wrong reason.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 6:43 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 28 Aug 2014 18:43:28 -0400

Advancing your civilian education already benefits your military career. If that's not incentive enough, I doubt a ribbon would be.

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 PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 8:13 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 28 Aug 2014 20:13:48 -0400

In the meanwhile I'll just wear this highly coveted medal (see in full shot):

Response by SSG Mike Angelo made Aug 28 at 2014 8:46 PM

SSG Mike Angelo — Thu, 28 Aug 2014 20:46:52 -0400

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.

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.

But...

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?

The reason is that higher education is not wired in enlisted career management fields.

There are other options for civilian education and the recognition of these obtained goals and degrees.

Response by LTC Paul Heinlein made Aug 28 at 2014 9:23 PM

LTC Paul Heinlein — Thu, 28 Aug 2014 21:23:26 -0400

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 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 28 at 2014 10:06 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 28 Aug 2014 22:06:02 -0400

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 MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 29 at 2014 8:08 AM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 08:08:34 -0400

That and a cup of coffee will get you far in this world.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 10:28 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 10:28:35 -0400

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 LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 10:32 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 10:32:07 -0400

One word. No.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Aug 29 at 2014 11:14 AM

SGT Ben Keen — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 11:14:36 -0400

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 SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 11:49 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 11:49:11 -0400

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"

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.

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"

Really, we have gutted the award system, lets not make it worse.

Response by SSG Robert Burns made Aug 29 at 2014 12:21 PM

SSG Robert Burns — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 12:21:43 -0400

That would be the most valuable medal if you add up all the TA it takes to get it!

Response by SSgt Gregory Guina made Aug 29 at 2014 12:25 PM

SSgt Gregory Guina — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 12:25:18 -0400

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 1SG Mark Colomb made Aug 29 at 2014 1:07 PM

1SG Mark Colomb — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 13:07:46 -0400

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 PO3 Christopher Mcdonald made Aug 29 at 2014 1:14 PM

PO3 Christopher Mcdonald — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 13:14:49 -0400

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 SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 2:01 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 14:01:37 -0400

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 SFC Christopher Perry made Aug 29 at 2014 3:24 PM

SFC Christopher Perry — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 15:24:20 -0400

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 SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 3:46 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 15:46:15 -0400

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 SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 4:04 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 16:04:39 -0400

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 LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 4:52 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 16:52:31 -0400

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 SSG V. Michelle Woods made Aug 29 at 2014 5:39 PM

SSG V. Michelle Woods — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 17:39:17 -0400

I highly doubt a simple ribbon would be worth spending the hours and effort it takes to complete a degree.

I don't see anything wrong with it considering a completed degree is a great measure of drive and persistence.

Response by CPT Zachary Brooks made Aug 29 at 2014 6:26 PM

CPT Zachary Brooks — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 18:26:52 -0400

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 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 7:56 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 19:56:42 -0400

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 SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 8:50 PM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 20:50:26 -0400

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.

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 CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2014 10:58 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 22:58:56 -0400

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 SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2014 6:14 AM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 30 Aug 2014 06:14:23 -0400

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 LCDR Bart Denny made Aug 30 at 2014 6:47 AM

LCDR Bart Denny — Sat, 30 Aug 2014 06:47:54 -0400

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.

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 SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2014 7:10 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 30 Aug 2014 07:10:59 -0400

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 CMSgt James Nolan made Aug 30 at 2014 8:48 AM

CMSgt James Nolan — Sat, 30 Aug 2014 08:48:10 -0400

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 MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2014 1:36 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 30 Aug 2014 13:36:57 -0400

I would love it!

Response by MSG Sean Milhauser made Aug 30 at 2014 1:44 PM

MSG Sean Milhauser — Sat, 30 Aug 2014 13:44:08 -0400

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.

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.

I concur with the opinions of many that earning a college degree has its own rewards for an individual beyond your military service. As SGM Matthew Quick points out, it also serves as a springboard to the civilian chapters of our life stories!

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2014 3:06 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 30 Aug 2014 15:06:40 -0400

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?"

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 Capt Bill Straw made Aug 30 at 2014 3:46 PM

Capt Bill Straw — Sat, 30 Aug 2014 15:46:22 -0400

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 MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2014 8:42 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 30 Aug 2014 20:42:03 -0400

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 SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2014 7:26 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 07:26:12 -0400

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 CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2014 10:25 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 10:25:17 -0400

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 SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2014 11:54 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 11:54:23 -0400

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 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2014 2:44 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 14:44:02 -0400

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 CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2014 4:40 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 01 Sep 2014 16:40:27 -0400

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 Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 6 at 2014 11:04 AM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 06 Sep 2014 11:04:38 -0400

Sheepskin should be reward enough. Do not need anything further.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 6 at 2014 1:12 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 06 Sep 2014 13:12:28 -0400

Awarding medals for civilian ed is like awarding medals to Soldiers for winning golf tournaments.
There is nothing selfless about this endeavor, unlike the MOVSM for volunteer work.
The degree is already the Soldier's award to supplement their "Wall of Wow".

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Sep 6 at 2014 1:36 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Sat, 06 Sep 2014 13:36:58 -0400

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 TSgt Joshua Copeland made Sep 6 at 2014 5:49 PM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Sat, 06 Sep 2014 17:49:07 -0400

For the AF I would wager it would not include associate degrees since they are pretty much mandatory for SNCOs.

Response by SFC Nestor Nievesmoran made Sep 6 at 2014 7:11 PM

SFC Nestor Nievesmoran — Sat, 06 Sep 2014 19:11:28 -0400

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 SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 6 at 2014 10:15 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 06 Sep 2014 22:15:59 -0400

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?

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 MSG Brad Sand made Sep 6 at 2014 10:54 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Sat, 06 Sep 2014 22:54:43 -0400

No.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Sep 6 at 2014 11:51 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Sat, 06 Sep 2014 23:51:00 -0400

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 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2014 7:56 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Sep 2014 07:56:00 -0400

NO MORE RIBBONS

Cripes!
Can't we all agree that ribbon/medal proliferation is a scourge on professional Soldiers everywhere?
The only ones that benefit from this work at the MCSS store.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2014 5:19 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Sep 2014 17:19:17 -0400

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"?

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 SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2014 10:01 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Sep 2014 22:01:21 -0400

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.

Tango!
Doc

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2014 10:05 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Sep 2014 22:05:41 -0400

All over the military there are combat arms SMs having strokes right now.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2014 10:05 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Sep 2014 22:05:44 -0400

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.

Tango!
Doc

Response by CW2 Jonathan Kantor made Sep 8 at 2014 7:02 AM

CW2 Jonathan Kantor — Mon, 08 Sep 2014 07:02:24 -0400

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 CW3 Clayton C. made Sep 8 at 2014 7:25 AM

CW3 Clayton C. — Mon, 08 Sep 2014 07:25:42 -0400

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 CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 8 at 2014 7:48 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 08 Sep 2014 07:48:05 -0400

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 SGT Artiesa Woods made Sep 8 at 2014 5:38 PM

SGT Artiesa Woods — Mon, 08 Sep 2014 17:38:53 -0400

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 SSG Trevor S. made Sep 8 at 2014 10:15 PM

SSG Trevor S. — Mon, 08 Sep 2014 22:15:42 -0400

SFC Mark Merino This sounds like a 2LT decided they didn't like being the barest chest in payday activities.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2014 5:38 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 05:38:41 -0400

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 Cpl Peter Martuneac made Sep 9 at 2014 7:06 AM

Cpl Peter Martuneac — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 07:06:26 -0400

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 CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Sep 9 at 2014 11:01 AM

CWO2 Shelby DuBois — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 11:01:11 -0400

No.

Response by SSG Jacob Wiley made Sep 9 at 2014 12:22 PM

SSG Jacob Wiley — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 12:22:55 -0400

This obviously couldn't be for officers, since they must have a degree to obtain a commission.

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.

There is already an education ribbon, the NOPDR.

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Sep 9 at 2014 3:32 PM

CWO2 Shelby DuBois — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 15:32:21 -0400

Just give them the okay to wear their mortarboard and tassel with their dress uniforms.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2014 4:07 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 16:07:25 -0400

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.

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.

What is needed is a Cold War Medal - not just a paper certificate.

Response by MSgt Charles Johnson made Sep 9 at 2014 7:03 PM

MSgt Charles Johnson — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 19:03:32 -0400

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 MCPO Hans Brakob made Sep 9 at 2014 9:08 PM

MCPO Hans Brakob — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 21:08:13 -0400

Next thing they'll give ribbons to Sailors for going to sea.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2014 2:23 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 Sep 2014 14:23:26 -0400

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 SFC Melker Johansson made Dec 2 at 2014 10:43 PM

SFC Melker Johansson — Tue, 02 Dec 2014 22:43:46 -0500

Ugh, no!!! We already have too many ribbons and medals. How about a medal for outstanding KP duty?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2014 12:27 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 03 Dec 2014 00:27:16 -0500

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 MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2014 12:35 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 03 Dec 2014 00:35:35 -0500

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 Capt Richard I P. made Dec 3 at 2014 7:46 AM

Capt Richard I P. — Wed, 03 Dec 2014 07:46:47 -0500

Yeah, if there's one thing Ive always thought the military needed, it's more medals.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2014 8:58 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 03 Dec 2014 08:58:59 -0500

No, that's what your degree is for.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Dec 4 at 2014 1:37 PM

LTC Stephen C. — Thu, 04 Dec 2014 13:37:44 -0500

Absurd.

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Dec 12 at 2014 7:04 PM

Capt Brandon Charters — Fri, 12 Dec 2014 19:04:34 -0500

I like the thought behind this question SFC Mark Merino , 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 SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 11:15 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Apr 2015 11:15:52 -0400

I feel having said ribbon might create some problems among the ranks.

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.

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.

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 COL Charles Williams made Apr 3 at 2015 9:51 PM

COL Charles Williams — Fri, 03 Apr 2015 21:51:09 -0400

No, we have too many ribbons already...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2015 10:08 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Apr 2015 22:08:02 -0400

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.
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.
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.

I believe that the medals/ribbons that we wear should reflect our military accomplishments.

Response by SFC Jay Needham made Apr 3 at 2015 10:24 PM

SFC Jay Needham — Fri, 03 Apr 2015 22:24:25 -0400

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.

Next thing you will be seeing Expert Typist badge or Combat Admin Badge.
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

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 SGT Jim Z. made Apr 3 at 2015 10:33 PM

SGT Jim Z. — Fri, 03 Apr 2015 22:33:53 -0400

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 SGM Mikel Dawson made Apr 4 at 2015 4:05 AM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Sat, 04 Apr 2015 04:05:28 -0400

If this was on 1 April, I'd think it was a joke!

Response by PO3 Brendan "Smitty" Smith made Apr 4 at 2015 12:50 PM

PO3 Brendan "Smitty" Smith — Sat, 04 Apr 2015 12:50:50 -0400

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 1LT Nick Kidwell made Apr 4 at 2015 4:37 PM

1LT Nick Kidwell — Sat, 04 Apr 2015 16:37:57 -0400

BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAAAA!!!

Oh...wait...you were serious?

Response by TSgt David Holman made Apr 4 at 2015 4:46 PM

TSgt David Holman — Sat, 04 Apr 2015 16:46:56 -0400

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 SFC Dan Sorrow, M.S. made Apr 4 at 2015 6:14 PM

SFC Dan Sorrow, M.S. — Sat, 04 Apr 2015 18:14:49 -0400

No.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2015 11:59 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 11:59:17 -0400

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 SFC Jim Ruether made Nov 18 at 2017 2:51 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Sat, 18 Nov 2017 14:51:33 -0500

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 Francisco Rosario made Nov 18 at 2017 5:10 PM

SFC Francisco Rosario — Sat, 18 Nov 2017 17:10:15 -0500

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 CW3 Kevin Storm made Nov 18 at 2017 6:11 PM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Sat, 18 Nov 2017 18:11:00 -0500

IMHO, no, I don't think it is needed.

Response by SFC James Massey made Nov 18 at 2017 7:18 PM

SFC James Massey — Sat, 18 Nov 2017 19:18:23 -0500

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 SMSgt Mark Gildersleeve made Nov 18 at 2017 7:32 PM

SMSgt Mark Gildersleeve — Sat, 18 Nov 2017 19:32:11 -0500

I was never a fan of the Good Conduct Medal, seriously you're giving me a medal for NOT getting in trouble....

Response by SPC Robert Coventry made Nov 20 at 2017 12:18 AM

SPC Robert Coventry — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 00:18:36 -0500

Response by SGT Frank Pritchett made Nov 20 at 2017 6:32 AM

SGT Frank Pritchett — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 06:32:07 -0500

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 CPL Bobby McKellar made Nov 20 at 2017 9:25 PM

CPL Bobby McKellar — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 21:25:44 -0500

Medal for Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal? Someone from the Department of Redundancy Department names it I see...

Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Nov 20 at 2017 10:47 PM

SSG Dave Johnston — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 22:47:19 -0500

NO. Next question. And why would you want to clutter your chest with shiny do-dads anyhow?

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Nov 21 at 2017 2:03 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Tue, 21 Nov 2017 14:03:02 -0500

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 SGM Bill Frazer made Feb 26 at 2018 10:26 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Mon, 26 Feb 2018 10:26:14 -0500

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 26 at 2018 10:28 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Feb 2018 10:28:20 -0500

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 SSG Edward Tilton made Feb 26 at 2018 10:30 AM

SSG Edward Tilton — Mon, 26 Feb 2018 10:30:32 -0500

No that is just silly. How about one for regular bowel movements

Response by 1SG Rob Smith made Nov 7 at 2018 6:06 PM

1SG Rob Smith — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 18:06:33 -0500

No
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 wrong

Response by Sgt Jim Stephens made Nov 7 at 2018 8:09 PM

Sgt Jim Stephens — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 20:09:06 -0500

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 CSM David Porterfield made Nov 7 at 2018 8:42 PM

CSM David Porterfield — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 20:42:31 -0500

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 SP5 Dennis Loberger made Nov 8 at 2018 2:51 AM

SP5 Dennis Loberger — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 02:51:14 -0500

Response by SGT Mark Rhodes made Nov 8 at 2018 11:33 AM

SGT Mark Rhodes — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 11:33:57 -0500

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 MSgt Michael Smith made Nov 8 at 2018 11:35 AM

MSgt Michael Smith — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 11:35:34 -0500

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 11:37 AM

MSgt Michael Smith — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 11:37:16 -0500

How about a medal for switching to GEICO? Or maybe a medal for flossing?

Response by Cpl Jim Canning made Nov 8 at 2018 11:49 AM

Cpl Jim Canning — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 11:49:51 -0500

Not all troops, because of their MOS, have the time to complete civilian courses while on active duty.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2018 11:59 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 11:59:44 -0500

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 CW5 Roger Jacobs made Nov 8 at 2018 12:20 PM

CW5 Roger Jacobs — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 12:20:59 -0500

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 MSgt Steve LaFata made Nov 8 at 2018 12:57 PM

MSgt Steve LaFata — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 12:57:09 -0500

No.

Response by SSG Ron Raade made Nov 8 at 2018 1:42 PM

SSG Ron Raade — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 13:42:48 -0500

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 it

Response by SPC Gary Welch made Nov 8 at 2018 1:55 PM

SPC Gary Welch — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 13:55:20 -0500

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 leave

Response by CPT Jeff Robinette made Nov 8 at 2018 1:57 PM

CPT Jeff Robinette — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 13:57:21 -0500

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.
Oh yes lest I forget I'm still waiting on the ARCOM I never got.
The Army already has a Schools award. We don't need another.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2018 2:02 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 14:02:28 -0500

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 days

Response by SFC William Dinwiddie made Nov 8 at 2018 2:05 PM

SFC William Dinwiddie — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 14:05:49 -0500

Nope

Response by PO1 Ray Barley made Nov 8 at 2018 2:18 PM

PO1 Ray Barley — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 14:18:01 -0500

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 WO1 Mike Dwyer made Nov 8 at 2018 2:28 PM

WO1 Mike Dwyer — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 14:28:37 -0500

I wouldn't want one.

Response by SSG Julian Nicholson made Nov 8 at 2018 3:17 PM

SSG Julian Nicholson — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 15:17:29 -0500

Absolutely not!

Response by SN Jay Perry made Nov 8 at 2018 3:34 PM

SN Jay Perry — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 15:34:27 -0500

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 SSG Curtis Vaughn made Nov 8 at 2018 3:39 PM

SSG Curtis Vaughn — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 15:39:45 -0500

No that education is worth promotion points

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2018 4:05 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 16:05:19 -0500

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 SFC Ron Culver made Nov 8 at 2018 5:03 PM

SFC Ron Culver — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 17:03:52 -0500

Heck NO. There are enough BS medals and ribbons already.

Response by CSM John Mead made Nov 8 at 2018 5:44 PM

CSM John Mead — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 17:44:01 -0500

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 PO3 Ross Walsh made Nov 8 at 2018 6:50 PM

PO3 Ross Walsh — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 18:50:00 -0500

Response by PO1 David McNeill made Nov 8 at 2018 7:10 PM

PO1 David McNeill — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 19:10:02 -0500

Absolutely not. Get your education for yourself. Medals aren’t what emwe serve or served for.

Response by SP6 Norman Berndt made Nov 8 at 2018 7:43 PM

SP6 Norman Berndt — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 19:43:37 -0500

Promotion points are or were awarded for education as are awards and decorations don't double them up.

Response by SGT Justin Singleton made Nov 8 at 2018 7:47 PM

SGT Justin Singleton — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 19:47:34 -0500

I have an undergrad, grad degree, and currently working on a PhD. I think ribbons for these is absolutely idiotic.

Response by MSG Danny Mathers made Nov 8 at 2018 7:54 PM

MSG Danny Mathers — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 19:54:38 -0500

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 LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2018 7:57 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 19:57:30 -0500

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 less

Response by MSG Don Jones made Nov 8 at 2018 8:02 PM

MSG Don Jones — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 20:02:56 -0500

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 reward

Response by PFC Adam Murray made Nov 8 at 2018 8:44 PM

PFC Adam Murray — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 20:44:41 -0500

No.
You want a medal? Earn it by being the Standard. Exceed it. Excel at your mos.
Anything outside of that, you suck, and do not deserve one.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Nov 8 at 2018 8:50 PM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 20:50:36 -0500

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 CW2 Larry Loughlin made Nov 8 at 2018 9:27 PM

CW2 Larry Loughlin — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 21:27:17 -0500

How about this one?

Response by SPC Robert DeVolld made Nov 8 at 2018 9:48 PM

SPC Robert DeVolld — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 21:48:37 -0500

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 SGT Robert Hawks made Nov 8 at 2018 9:51 PM

SGT Robert Hawks — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 21:51:36 -0500

Response by SSG Russell Myers made Nov 8 at 2018 9:53 PM

SSG Russell Myers — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 21:53:10 -0500

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!!!!

SSG Myers Russell D. Ret.

Response by SP5 Hank Vandenburgh PhD made Nov 8 at 2018 9:56 PM

SP5 Hank Vandenburgh PhD — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 21:56:23 -0500

No.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2018 11:47 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 23:47:43 -0500

Who would want to wear it is the question.

Response by MAJ James Hastings made Nov 8 at 2018 11:56 PM

MAJ James Hastings — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 23:56:21 -0500

NO...for god sakes we aren't the Boy Scouts of America!

Response by SSG Martin Petersen made Nov 8 at 2018 11:59 PM

SSG Martin Petersen — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 23:59:05 -0500

Absolutely not. You get promotion points for education that is good enough. Besides, the degree you earn is your award.

Response by SSgt Paul Murray made Nov 9 at 2018 12:17 AM

SSgt Paul Murray — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 00:17:56 -0500

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 SPC Gary Welch made Nov 9 at 2018 12:31 AM

SPC Gary Welch — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 00:31:10 -0500

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 pinch

Response by SGT Zac Roberts made Nov 9 at 2018 12:40 AM

SGT Zac Roberts — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 00:40:25 -0500

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 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 12:46 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 00:46:17 -0500

Response by SFC Michael Robison made Nov 9 at 2018 12:47 AM

SFC Michael Robison — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 00:47:16 -0500

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 SSG Christopher Horton made Nov 9 at 2018 6:42 AM

SSG Christopher Horton — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 06:42:33 -0500

No, as it gives you promotion points.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 6:48 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 06:48:01 -0500

Absolutely not.

Response by SPC Rick LaBonte made Nov 9 at 2018 6:51 AM

SPC Rick LaBonte — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 06:51:59 -0500

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 SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 8:00 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 08:00:42 -0500

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.
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 CW3 Todd Girdner made Nov 9 at 2018 8:24 AM

CW3 Todd Girdner — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 08:24:10 -0500

How about a I did what I joined the military for!
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.
Now thats some Outstanding Volunteer Service!

Response by PO2 Nasser Montes made Nov 9 at 2018 8:54 AM

PO2 Nasser Montes — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 08:54:30 -0500

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 LTC John Griscom made Nov 9 at 2018 9:01 AM

LTC John Griscom — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:01:20 -0500

Not in favor of this. Not all civilian education subjects would contribute to improving a person's ability.

Response by SSG Jason Clark made Nov 9 at 2018 9:17 AM

SSG Jason Clark — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:17:01 -0500

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 LCpl Darrell J. Farley Jr. made Nov 9 at 2018 9:20 AM

LCpl Darrell J. Farley Jr. — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:20:35 -0500

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 PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 9:49 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:49:08 -0500

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 MAJ Ron McCauley made Nov 9 at 2018 10:27 AM

MAJ Ron McCauley — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 10:27:07 -0500

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 Matthew Arnold made Nov 9 at 2018 11:25 AM

MAJ Matthew Arnold — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 11:25:32 -0500

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 SFC James Beason made Nov 9 at 2018 11:32 AM

SFC James Beason — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 11:32:52 -0500

No!

Response by PO1 Scott Peterson made Nov 9 at 2018 11:53 AM

PO1 Scott Peterson — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 11:53:36 -0500

Now their going the route of everyone gets a medal

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 11:56 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 11:56:55 -0500

Nope

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 12:14 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 12:14:00 -0500

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 off

Response by Cpl Bill Johnson made Nov 9 at 2018 12:25 PM

Cpl Bill Johnson — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 12:25:57 -0500

No. That is ridiculous.

Response by MAJ Douglas Dopp made Nov 9 at 2018 12:38 PM

MAJ Douglas Dopp — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 12:38:15 -0500

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 Degree

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Nov 9 at 2018 12:47 PM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 12:47:59 -0500

No, because then we would have a medal for people who faked their correspondence courses

Response by PO1 Robert George made Nov 9 at 2018 12:58 PM

PO1 Robert George — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 12:58:01 -0500

Got enough participation medals out there.

Response by SSgt Bill Lappin made Nov 9 at 2018 3:20 PM

SSgt Bill Lappin — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 15:20:13 -0500

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 CPT J B made Nov 9 at 2018 3:53 PM

CPT J B — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 15:53:40 -0500

I think there are too many medals and ribbons already.

Response by SGT Andy Jackson made Nov 9 at 2018 4:06 PM

SGT Andy Jackson — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 16:06:03 -0500

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 PVT Jeromy Markin made Nov 9 at 2018 5:52 PM

PVT Jeromy Markin — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 17:52:53 -0500

Wow... now they give out particiation trophies...

Response by SFC Craig Vaughn made Nov 9 at 2018 6:15 PM

SFC Craig Vaughn — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 18:15:14 -0500

No!

Response by SFC Tom Kuleck made Nov 9 at 2018 6:58 PM

SFC Tom Kuleck — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 18:58:58 -0500

The Army Achievement Medal is nothing more than an ‘atta boy’

Response by PO1 Michael Moe made Nov 9 at 2018 6:59 PM

PO1 Michael Moe — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 18:59:30 -0500

Fuck no!

Response by PFC Robert Shadwick made Nov 9 at 2018 7:11 PM

PFC Robert Shadwick — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 19:11:56 -0500

Response by SSgt W. Aaron Gregory made Nov 9 at 2018 7:31 PM

SSgt W. Aaron Gregory — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 19:31:06 -0500

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 SFC Greg Bruorton made Nov 9 at 2018 7:42 PM

SFC Greg Bruorton — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 19:42:57 -0500

No. That's for annotation in the person's 201 file--where it belongs.

Response by Maj John Bell made Nov 9 at 2018 7:50 PM

Maj John Bell — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 19:50:39 -0500

You never know how much is enough, until you've had too much.

Response by MSG Clinton Brown made Nov 9 at 2018 8:22 PM

MSG Clinton Brown — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 20:22:28 -0500

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 skills

Response by SFC Carlos Cruz made Nov 9 at 2018 8:30 PM

SFC Carlos Cruz — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 20:30:08 -0500

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 CW4 John Wheatley made Nov 9 at 2018 10:12 PM

CW4 John Wheatley — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 22:12:53 -0500

You should already have graduation certificates ,maybe you could put them ? WTF does civilian education have to do with the military ethos ?

Response by SSG Paul Mulvany made Nov 9 at 2018 10:28 PM

SSG Paul Mulvany — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 22:28:52 -0500

I think it could help others to persue advanced degrees: “ If that idiot can get an MBA anyone can!”

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2018 11:05 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 23:05:27 -0500

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 SGT Ted Bauer made Nov 10 at 2018 1:01 AM

SGT Ted Bauer — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 01:01:23 -0500

Yes

Response by SP5 David Bennett made Nov 10 at 2018 1:07 AM

SP5 David Bennett — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 01:07:38 -0500

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 SPC Travis Grizzard made Nov 10 at 2018 1:26 AM

SPC Travis Grizzard — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 01:26:16 -0500

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2018 1:29 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 01:29:47 -0500

I think that the 2nd LT rank is enough. The awards system is already broken.

Response by 1SG Frank Walker made Nov 10 at 2018 3:03 AM

1SG Frank Walker — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 03:03:07 -0500

Response by PFC Romeo Ryans made Nov 10 at 2018 6:55 AM

PFC Romeo Ryans — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 06:55:30 -0500

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 SSG Dave Rogers made Nov 10 at 2018 8:06 AM

SSG Dave Rogers — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 08:06:36 -0500

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.

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.

Got a 100% on PT here is a badge
Got a Outstanding on Brigade Inspection here is an AAM
Gave a good report to the Commander here is a Coin
Graduated top of your class here is an ARCOM
Got Soldier of the Year here is an ARCOM, Coin, Certificate and 3 days off
Carried the Colors for an event here is a CSM Certificate
YOU GET THE DRIFT

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.

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?

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.

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 SGT Mark Moen made Nov 10 at 2018 8:23 AM

SGT Mark Moen — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 08:23:56 -0500

Dumb, good intention but that leads to a bad place

Response by CSM Andrew Perrault made Nov 10 at 2018 9:00 AM

CSM Andrew Perrault — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 09:00:30 -0500

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 SPC Dakota Stafford made Nov 10 at 2018 9:58 AM

SPC Dakota Stafford — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 09:58:06 -0500

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 CW3 Harvey K. made Nov 10 at 2018 10:04 AM

CW3 Harvey K. — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 10:04:47 -0500

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.
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.
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 1SG Cliff Mullen made Nov 10 at 2018 11:00 AM

1SG Cliff Mullen — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 11:00:07 -0500

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 SFC Gonzalo Garza made Nov 10 at 2018 11:20 AM

SFC Gonzalo Garza — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 11:20:02 -0500

NO!!!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2018 11:33 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 11:33:46 -0500

This is why awards are taken as a joke nowadays.

Response by PO1 Nelson Fox made Nov 10 at 2018 11:46 AM

PO1 Nelson Fox — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 11:46:15 -0500

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2018 11:53 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 11:53:14 -0500

Volunteering and civilian education are 2 different things. So you really can't compare them at all.

Response by SFC(P) Richard Warren made Nov 10 at 2018 12:36 PM

SFC(P) Richard Warren — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 12:36:27 -0500

No. Absolutely and unconditionally, no.

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.

Likewise, I don't want my soldiers to know that one of my team leaders has a PhD while their PSG has a BA.

This type of medal would only serve to be divisive and subversive to the chain of command.

Response by 1SG Stephen Burgess made Nov 10 at 2018 12:45 PM

1SG Stephen Burgess — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 12:45:39 -0500

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 Maj Paul Wengert made Nov 10 at 2018 1:33 PM

Maj Paul Wengert — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 13:33:30 -0500

Response by CPT Robert Boshears made Nov 10 at 2018 2:07 PM

CPT Robert Boshears — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 14:07:39 -0500

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?

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 CW4 Jim Shelburn made Nov 10 at 2018 2:22 PM

CW4 Jim Shelburn — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 14:22:41 -0500

I am NOT in favor of this. The military is not middle school or scouting. Ridiculous

Response by SPC John Wear made Nov 10 at 2018 2:37 PM

SPC John Wear — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 14:37:35 -0500

Hell no. Higher education helps as you move up the ranks. May as well award you medals for getting promoted.

Response by SFC William Huse made Nov 10 at 2018 3:35 PM

SFC William Huse — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 15:35:17 -0500

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 SPC Jose Vidrotiru made Nov 10 at 2018 4:40 PM

SPC Jose Vidrotiru — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 16:40:44 -0500

Don’t belong in the military

Response by SPC Jim Martin made Nov 10 at 2018 4:41 PM

SPC Jim Martin — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 16:41:33 -0500

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 1SG Mark Reed made Nov 10 at 2018 4:49 PM

1SG Mark Reed — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 16:49:53 -0500

Sounds like a great idea, maybe this would motivate troops to use their education centers and benefits more often.

Response by CSM John Nichols made Nov 10 at 2018 5:08 PM

CSM John Nichols — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 17:08:04 -0500

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 days

Response by CMDCM Dave Seitz made Nov 10 at 2018 6:19 PM

CMDCM Dave Seitz — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 18:19:02 -0500

CMDMC(SW/CC),
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 CPT Charles Emery made Nov 10 at 2018 7:44 PM

CPT Charles Emery — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 19:44:28 -0500

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 Capt Daniel Goodman made Nov 10 at 2018 8:51 PM

Capt Daniel Goodman — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 20:51:01 -0500

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 SFC Dale Karr made Nov 10 at 2018 10:06 PM

SFC Dale Karr — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 22:06:12 -0500

Education is professional development, the diploma is sufficient enough.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2018 10:11 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Nov 2018 22:11:58 -0500

No. Stop it.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2018 1:31 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 01:31:06 -0500

I feel higher education should get you a pay raise, sort of like how people with second langues get a stipend.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Nov 11 at 2018 5:17 AM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 05:17:35 -0500

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 Cpl Mark A. Morris made Nov 11 at 2018 6:01 AM

Cpl Mark A. Morris — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 06:01:07 -0500

Good morning SFC,
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.
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.
Marines are push button. Meaning, do, or die. But, that is not 100% accurate.
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?
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.
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...
Great question SFC.

Response by SGT Randall Smith made Nov 11 at 2018 7:04 AM

SGT Randall Smith — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 07:04:26 -0500

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 CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2018 9:32 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 09:32:46 -0500

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 SFC Ronald Hebert made Nov 11 at 2018 9:37 AM

SFC Ronald Hebert — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 09:37:00 -0500

If it makes one appear to be a hero why not?

Response by SP5 Dennis Hively made Nov 11 at 2018 10:08 AM

SP5 Dennis Hively — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 10:08:26 -0500

Response by Sgt Daniel Mountin made Nov 11 at 2018 10:16 AM

Sgt Daniel Mountin — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 10:16:01 -0500

Audie Murphy is spinning in his grave

Response by SFC Jose Collazo made Nov 11 at 2018 11:35 AM

SFC Jose Collazo — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 11:35:01 -0500

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2018 12:11 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 12:11:25 -0500

That just sounds stupid!

Response by SFC Martin Reddy made Nov 11 at 2018 1:41 PM

SFC Martin Reddy — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 13:41:20 -0500

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2018 3:26 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 15:26:47 -0500

Not just no, but he'll no. Education helps with rank. We already hand out awards like candy.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2018 3:37 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 15:37:20 -0500

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 3:52 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 15:52:59 -0500

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 SFC Charlie Broadus II made Nov 11 at 2018 4:40 PM

SFC Charlie Broadus II — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 16:40:59 -0500

No! I agree with the other comments, if you want a education great! But a medal for personal improvement again no

Response by SGT Eric Vazquez made Nov 11 at 2018 4:46 PM

SGT Eric Vazquez — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 16:46:58 -0500

What? Lol

Response by PO1 Nicholas Kowalski made Nov 11 at 2018 4:56 PM

PO1 Nicholas Kowalski — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 16:56:06 -0500

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.
Thucydides said, "The society that separates its scholars from its warriors will have its thinking done by cowards and its fighting by fools."
A medal is worth considering.

Response by SSG Rob Michael made Nov 11 at 2018 7:56 PM

SSG Rob Michael — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 19:56:19 -0500

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 NCO

Response by PO2 Mark Boone made Nov 11 at 2018 8:55 PM

PO2 Mark Boone — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 20:55:19 -0500

That's like a participation trophy for children!

Response by LTC Sidney Moore made Nov 11 at 2018 9:15 PM

LTC Sidney Moore — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 21:15:32 -0500

I would not approve of a Medal for Civilian education. Doesn't serve a military purpose and it's silly!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2018 9:27 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 21:27:53 -0500

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 CW4 Scott Hyde made Nov 12 at 2018 5:25 AM

CW4 Scott Hyde — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 05:25:00 -0500

I believe some is bored and found a hornets nest to poke. Kind of pointless but funny to watch.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2018 8:51 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 08:51:20 -0500

No.

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 10:43 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 10:43:23 -0500

Maybe they could have little gold star devices for academic achievement, and an apple device for the teacher's pet.

Response by SSgt Skip Bothwick made Nov 12 at 2018 12:40 PM

SSgt Skip Bothwick — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 12:40:09 -0500

Nope no way no how

Response by MSgt Terry Ruiz made Nov 12 at 2018 1:19 PM

MSgt Terry Ruiz — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 13:19:01 -0500

Nope how about a medal for the ppl that do all of the work while some are in class or doing homework

Response by SSG Michael Medeiros made Nov 12 at 2018 1:25 PM

SSG Michael Medeiros — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 13:25:06 -0500

No we should not have a civilian education ribbon or medal.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2018 1:53 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 13:53:29 -0500

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 SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2018 2:40 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 14:40:30 -0500

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 PO2 Chris Sabo made Nov 12 at 2018 3:43 PM

PO2 Chris Sabo — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 15:43:19 -0500

Fuck No! What the Fuck is that Horse shit!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2018 4:25 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 16:25:48 -0500

Is this where they coined the saying "So what? Whadda you want? a medal? " JK

Response by Maj Charles Bethell made Nov 12 at 2018 6:11 PM

Maj Charles Bethell — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 18:11:52 -0500

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 1SG George Wever made Nov 12 at 2018 6:20 PM

1SG George Wever — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 18:20:17 -0500

Heck no

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2018 6:37 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 18:37:42 -0500

I thought this was a joke at first.

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 Capt Dennis Tague made Nov 12 at 2018 7:57 PM

Capt Dennis Tague — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 19:57:14 -0500

They keep it up they're going to look like some of those North Korean dudes with "stuff" hanging down to their knees.

NO!

Response by PO2 John Chalus made Nov 12 at 2018 8:44 PM

PO2 John Chalus — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 20:44:24 -0500

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 8:46 PM

PO2 John Chalus — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 20:46:34 -0500

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 Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2018 9:04 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 21:04:27 -0500

I thought the MOVSM was the most pointless award out there, until this one.

Hell no.

Response by CPL David Martin made Nov 12 at 2018 10:25 PM

CPL David Martin — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 22:25:46 -0500

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 SSG Harry Jr. Peters made Nov 12 at 2018 10:26 PM

SSG Harry Jr. Peters — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 22:26:09 -0500

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 SGT Brian Littrel made Nov 13 at 2018 12:44 AM

SGT Brian Littrel — Tue, 13 Nov 2018 00:44:33 -0500

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 SFC Emanuel Marino made Nov 16 at 2018 5:29 PM

SFC Emanuel Marino — Fri, 16 Nov 2018 17:29:26 -0500

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 SPC Steve Bright made Nov 17 at 2018 1:08 AM

SPC Steve Bright — Sat, 17 Nov 2018 01:08:59 -0500

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.
I also agree w the CSM below

Response by COL William Oseles made Dec 17 at 2018 9:32 PM

COL William Oseles — Mon, 17 Dec 2018 21:32:36 -0500

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.
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 SCPO William Akin made Dec 18 at 2018 10:46 AM

SCPO William Akin — Tue, 18 Dec 2018 10:46:28 -0500

You have got to be shitting me..
How in gods name did we win WW2 without all these gedunk bullshit ribbons, medals, and badges.
You have to carry a guide book around so you can identify whats on your newly minted Seaman's chest..
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..
Its no wonder they preach physical fitness like they do, you have be an olympic weight lifter to don a 21 century military uniform..
Off rant..

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 1 at 2019 11:59 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 23:59:58 -0500

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.

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.

At least that’s the way this old soldier sees it.

Response by GySgt Keith Rininger made Feb 5 at 2019 8:27 PM

GySgt Keith Rininger — Tue, 05 Feb 2019 20:27:05 -0500

Not No, but Hell No.

Response by GySgt Keith Rininger made Feb 5 at 2019 8:30 PM

GySgt Keith Rininger — Tue, 05 Feb 2019 20:30:02 -0500

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 SSG James Oliver Nathan Jr made May 15 at 2019 6:10 PM

SSG James Oliver Nathan Jr — Wed, 15 May 2019 18:10:17 -0400

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 SFC Ricky Esckelson made May 15 at 2019 7:25 PM

SFC Ricky Esckelson — Wed, 15 May 2019 19:25:57 -0400

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made May 16 at 2019 1:00 PM

SFC Francisco Rosario — Thu, 16 May 2019 13:00:11 -0400

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 David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM made Sep 9 at 2019 11:34 AM

SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM — Mon, 09 Sep 2019 11:34:04 -0400

I think this is a good idea!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 20 at 2019 6:08 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 18:08:18 -0500

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.

I don’t need a piece of material or plastic to know what I didz

Response by SPC John Decker made Dec 20 at 2019 7:51 PM

SPC John Decker — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 19:51:23 -0500

Response by SSG Harry Herres made Dec 20 at 2019 8:06 PM

SSG Harry Herres — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 20:06:41 -0500

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 TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 20 at 2019 8:32 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 20:32:14 -0500

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 Cpl Christopher Bishop made Dec 21 at 2019 10:23 AM

Cpl Christopher Bishop — Sat, 21 Dec 2019 10:23:54 -0500

Id say No.

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.

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?

There are already blasphemous awards, like handing those who simply hung around for 20 years a Bronze Star.

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 MSgt John O'Connor made Dec 22 at 2019 6:29 PM

MSgt John O'Connor — Sun, 22 Dec 2019 18:29:17 -0500

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 wounds

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 23 at 2019 10:51 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Dec 2019 10:51:20 -0500

Sure it would.

Why not? Im reading a lot of, "If you are doing something for the medal, youre doing it for the wrong reason."

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?

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?

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 MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2019 12:09 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 Dec 2019 12:09:51 -0500

Maybe a ribbon, not a medal.
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.
It's an important point, but I feel it should have the same weight as a leadership/NCO/SCNO Academy, which is a ribbon.