SM is being recommended for an ARCOM which he currently has 5 x ARCOMS. Do you place w/ 5OLC or 1SLC? This came up today as a question.

Thanks Top!

SFC (Join to see) - No problem. Remember AAM, ARCOM the ribbon always counts as 1.

You're not understanding the question though, which is my fault, it's but the wording on the DA 638 for the award.

SFC (Join to see) - I realized that after I read it again. I commented further down once I figured out what you meant.

New Army..

Do you all not understand scope of responsibility? How did that SSG's actions impact the brigade level or higher? SSG is usually in charge of what, 12 soldiers max? It's not the rank but the scope of responsibility and the impact to the higher level commands.

SFC (Join to see) -
I understand your point, however rank does come to play in many awards. This is very unfortunate because the regs don't have any criteria for the award based on rank. I have seen many of SFCs get an MSM primarily due to their rank, the overall impact on the organization had little to do with the award.

...and I've also see Company Commanders leave with ARCOMs. I'm not saying there aren't some like that however, that's on the individual Leadership (or lack there of).

He isn’t a senior nco or an officer

You're not understanding the question, it's not about getting an award, but the wording on the DA 638 for the award.

I clearly understand the question, I just did not bother addressing it. Because regardless of his deed, performance or sacrifice, he will not get an MSM because he is not a SFC or above.

Seen first sergeants get together to fly in to Iraq for BS, only to recommend each other for MSMs and get it, get it?
that's my point. Keep leading and be safe!!!

According to the regulation, rank is not a factor but the achievement and the level of responsibility is. Awards are very subjective. However, one cannot compare the level of responsibility of a SGT (E-5), versus a Fist Sergeant. Again, level of responsibility has a lot of weight. I have seen E-6s get MSMs.

I received a Defenses Meritorious Service Medal for time in Afghanistan with CDO-SOAG, and a MSM for service with Special Operations Detachment Korea. I was an E6 at the time, so I know it happens.

The DA 638 is what I was referring too. Thanks for the information

So on the DA 638 one puts 1SLC?

Roger in the recommended you would put the next award info they so in this case put Arcom 1SLC.

SFC (Join to see) - I believe it would be 5th OLC on the write up and a SOLC on the ARCOM. OLC is Oak Leaf Cluster. In the write up it doesn't say bronze oak leaf cluster. So it is an ARCOM 5 OLC.

1SG (Join to see) - Yes you are correct on the 638 you enter 5OLC but wear 1SLC on the uniform upon approval. I should have been clear to the SM before I input thanks for catching that 1SG.

if you are referring to the actual 638, I would recommend 5 OLC for processing. The regulation gives clear guidance on how to wear the award on your uniform but when it comes to filling out the 638, there is not specific guidance on how to address multiple awards. Unless there is a policy letter in place that states other wise, I think that 5 OLC would be the way to go.

I process awards all the time. Currently we are processing EOT Awards. All awards that have been submitted have been submitted as 5 OLC or 6 OLC in the interest of processing and simplicity. I have found nothing in 600-8-22 that specifically states the exact way you need to submit that information on the 638.

Hope this helps.

SSG Garza,

Good stuff I have a couple of questions I want to ask you via email and I will send it this morning. What's your first name?

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SFC Paul Garza - sent

Depends on who his commander was...