Should we remove combat patches to be sensitive to those who don't have them?

No wonder why everyone thinks privates are pussies. This new Army bullshit is, well, bullshit. Wish things where the same as when my father was in. We'd be able to single out the non hackers and the Army would be a much better organization.

The new folks need to suck it up and move on with learning their job and doing it well. Keep the combat patch because it identifies those soldiers with very valuable experience. The new folks should be looking to those with a combat patch to set the example because they understand how training and discipline effect combat capability. Also, it's a great Army tradition.

That's insane. When I enlisted in the late 90s all my NCOs had combat patches from Desert Storm, privates didn't. No big deal. I enlisted in the reserves where soldiers usually do basic training one summer them AIT later. Therefore I could not wear a beret and didn't have my rainbow participation ribbon, also no big deal. When I got my commission I went to a unit that had just gotten back from Iraq. The only Soldiers without combat patches were the lieutenants, also no issue. Should I also remove my awards because not everyone has those? Military decorations and accoutrements are earned, if you want to wear them you have to go earn them. That doesn't mean everyone who has earned some should have to remove them so that you can feel "special" too.

Sounds like BS.... or Duffleblog...

Seriously? I never saw combat when I was in but I'm surely not going to get all butt hurt because others have. WTH?

Leave them on, they were earned.

Look, I've been on both sides. I was sent to the School House as an Instructor 2 weeks after 9-11, then 4 years later had a former Commander by-name-request me and get my orders to a deploying unit changed to a 3 year stint with him in Korea. When "Friends" started treating me differently because I didn't have a patch (as if it were my fault) and AIP became known as "Avoid Iraq Pay", I was fortunate to have a buddy in assignments who helped me get to a deploying unit. My son, who also became an AH-64 Pilot, ran into the same thing when he got to his first unit just as they were set to return from a deployment. He was the only Soldier without a patch in the unit and was ostracized by his peers. That is not professional conduct. I realize there are people who have dodged combat, but they are in the minority, most that haven't been deployed dream of proving themselves in the crucible of combat but have little control of their destiny - my son couldn't wait to deploy, but even some I considered comrades and "Friend" did nothing to establish a more professional culture in that Unit. During Desert Storm, my first Unit was top heavy with Vietnam Vets but was never mobilized. With all of that being said, I looked up to the Vietnam Vets in my first Unit and believe the wear of a combat patch has a place in our profession. However, the respect should be a two way street. If we want the respect of having "been there and done that" we need to show those who have not yet had the opportunity - and who are not dodging that opportunity - the respect they deserve and make them feel like a valuable part of the team, because they are. Everyone who signs that blank check to a grateful Nation by truly committing to serve is a Brother and a Sister of mine.

I can't believe this is still being discussed.

You earn it; it's yours. Wear it. Why have it if you can't wear it? This world is getting so cry babyish.

MSG Carmichael, I have heard of this happening in the past. Would you post the Unit, Location and Date? By hiding the unit information, we help perpetuate this stupidity. If it poses a conflict for you, then anyone who has the information is requested to post it. Thanks!