What is the best way to tell your unit that you in no way shape or form want an ETS award from them?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Oct 2016 21:19:46 -0400

First off, wow kinda surprised this generated any response at all. I was looking more for a "oh hey, just do this memorandum and it's all done." kind of a deal. Anyways as for context, awards here go through about 15 or more corrections for non-grammatical issues. The award hasn't been written yet and I would probably end up writing it anyways. I just don't want to waste anyone's time or my own for that matter with writing an award that a civilian company cares not a whit about that just going to get kicked back over and over and over. I know what I have done and I honestly don't care much for recognition. I'd rather see some of my Soldiers get credited as they go on to do bigger and better things. Do I also have other motivations for not wanting an award yes because there have been several things that have left a bad taste, but I didn't post this to air my dirty laundry, I was just simply looking for advice. Thanks all for the numerous replies. Most were pretty entertaining, and a few were even helpful.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 5 at 2016 9:20 PM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Oct 2016 21:20:48 -0400

Tell your chain of command in person. Put it in writing, MFR, if necessary.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Oct 5 at 2016 9:21 PM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Wed, 05 Oct 2016 21:21:19 -0400

Feels like there must be a story behind this. Can you share more context?

Response by 1SG Mike Case made Oct 5 at 2016 9:58 PM

1SG Mike Case — Wed, 05 Oct 2016 21:58:36 -0400

Take your award unless you came to the unit and did nothing to make it better and you simply wasted space. I am curious as well to hear why you want no award in any way shape or form.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Oct 5 at 2016 10:31 PM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Wed, 05 Oct 2016 22:31:20 -0400

I think in the long term, when you are older and look back on this, you will regret not taking an award. You should take an award and try your best to reflect on the positives from this experience.

Response by Capt Tom Brown made Oct 5 at 2016 11:04 PM

Capt Tom Brown — Wed, 05 Oct 2016 23:04:00 -0400

By all means share the back story which resulted in this decision. Without context it could just be a BA or sour grapes.

Response by CPL Wilfred Roberge made Oct 5 at 2016 11:04 PM

CPL Wilfred Roberge — Wed, 05 Oct 2016 23:04:29 -0400

Hmm....
I would say "Suck it up and take the award, you may not appreciate the award right now BUT you or your children might some day in the future."
My father passed away when I was 11 and served in the Army some 20 years prior to my birth in a time (1950's Germany) when all you could basically get for awards for service were for acts of Heroism or a Good Conduct Medal. To commemorate his short military career all we have is a few pictures and a DD214 (with the awards block blank). Based on the DD214 and some second hand info from my mom all I basically know is his MOS and his UNIT. I do not even know which MOS was his primary and which was his secondary, I just know, he made it to SP4, and had been to Fort Dix for Basic, then Engineer School @ Fort Belvoir for "Engineer Equipment Repairer" and then Aberdeen Proving Grounds for "Welder Blacksmith School." then sent to his unit in West Germany. He was discharged from Active Duty just shy of 3 years "because of transportation back to the United States" (re that is when his troop ship sailed, it was serve maybe another 3 to 6 months on active duty OR get discharged "early") An ETS award probably would have told me a lot more than I was able to figure out about him from the DD214, more such as exactly what he did in his unit (an "Engineer Detachment") or what his detachment did. Did he just fix the machines of did he ever get to operate them? (He ended up as a civillian Operating Engineer in the International Union of Operating Engineers) was he good at his job or really good or just average? Was he a squad leader? When they went to the range did he consistently qualify on his assigned weapon? Sometimes ETS awards I have seen include all of this stuff and it tells the family a story. I wish I knew more about my dad' short Army Career, don't let your children be left scratching their heads because you refused an award. I am currently sending away for his Cold War Service Certificate.
Don't let an award slip through your fingers when you could have had one, it will be something not just for you but for your family. It will be something for future generations to record your history.

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Oct 5 at 2016 11:11 PM

SFC Joseph Weber — Wed, 05 Oct 2016 23:11:17 -0400

Go to your 1SG and scream and stomp your foot a lot. I've seen that work pretty well for people who don't want things.

Response by PFC Jim Wheeler made Oct 6 at 2016 3:09 AM

PFC Jim Wheeler — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 03:09:32 -0400

I hear throat punches are an effective way to ensure you don't get an award.

I suggest starting with your CSM, they always did appreciate a good throat punch.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 6 at 2016 9:29 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 09:29:03 -0400

SGT Private RallyPoint Member Take the award. You may some day be being considered for a job/promotion by a vet who would think no award was a pretty negative thing.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Oct 6 at 2016 9:49 AM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 09:49:20 -0400

Make fun of someone else getting and ETS award, then someone says, "Well we are giving you one as well", to which I replied. "What for?" I was then told it was because I was leaving. I told them to stuff it. On my last day, I got a coffee mug instead with the unit patch on it. I loved it more than any award.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Oct 6 at 2016 10:17 AM

CAPT Kevin B. — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 10:17:34 -0400

I'm in the too much fruit salad is handed around camp. That said, I've also sat a number of promotion boards. Since EOTs are common, a question that comes up in a reviewer's mind is why didn't that SM get one coming out of that tour even though the Eval was right in the pack? Stuff like that sticks out and if you wind up in the third crunch, you don't want people to start looking for reasons to toss you. Sometimes being different can harm you in the long run.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 6 at 2016 10:23 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 10:23:30 -0400

Oh, this needs to have a story time to enlighten us as to what is up. But to answer your question, there are many routes you can take. You can do the extreme direct approach and not walk up to the Commander when called. Or, you can walk up and THEN tell the CDR to their face you don't want it. You could walk into your 1SGs office and state your case. Or, you could run the request up through your TL/SL/PSG and have them relay that request to your 1SG. OR.....and just hear me out.....you could simply take the award when it's presented.....ya know, be that NCO that sets the example....then about face and drive on with your life. Because in the end, if you take any of the options that were listed prior to the just taking the award and moving out, then you could set the bad example to the rest of the Soldiers (especially the Junior Enlisted) within the unit which could then in turn create even more issues within the unit in regards to morale and discipline. I would gather that you have a rather bad taste in your mouth for your unit and probably the Army as a whole, but remember this.....until that ETS date rolls around, you are still in the Army and you are an NCO. Operate as an NCO.

Response by MSG David Rogers III made Oct 6 at 2016 11:22 AM

MSG David Rogers III — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:22:14 -0400

Take a knee during the awards presentation. Kidding. Really, sounds like you are just trying to make a statement against the unit. This may not be the way to do it.

Response by CPO Gene Gysin made Oct 6 at 2016 11:31 AM

CPO Gene Gysin — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:31:57 -0400

Go AWOL

Response by SPC Dawn Appelberg (Johnson) made Oct 6 at 2016 12:07 PM

SPC Dawn Appelberg (Johnson) — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 12:07:30 -0400

Explain you are not going to do a ceremony. Keep it professional. They cannot force you to do it. Let your RNCO know it would be a waste of paper to even print it. Matter of fact if you really, truly do not want it, simply say no thank you and drive on. You don't have to make a huge debacle out of it.

Response by MAJ Byron Oyler made Oct 6 at 2016 12:38 PM

MAJ Byron Oyler — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 12:38:52 -0400

You would be telling folks senior to you no thanks, not recommended. Generally awards equal promotion points and whether you want the award or not, you probably want to get promoted someday.

Response by SFC Kingsley Adams made Oct 6 at 2016 12:39 PM

SFC Kingsley Adams — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 12:39:34 -0400

Don't show up. I did that one time, I was actually PCS'ing and I never showed up to my award formation. I'm sitting at the airport ready to deploy to South Korea and my squad leader shows up with the plaque they were going to present to me in formation. I of course accepted it but didn't show up because of certain events that happened to my family I don't want to share here.

Response by SSG Brian Kresge made Oct 6 at 2016 1:01 PM

SSG Brian Kresge — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 13:01:20 -0400

When I left 1/501 in Alaska in the late 1990s, they got me a plaque and awarded me an ARCOM. They didn't do it "just because," usually the effort and the award, if any, were directly related to the value contribution of the soldier. If your unit does it "just because", and you feel like you never really clicked with it, or you are unsure about your aggregate value-contribution to the unit and/or your own merit, take it anyway, and just put it on your DD-214.

It's the same reason why you never swear at your boss in the civilian world on your last day before you quit. As satisfying as these things might seem, burning bridges is a bad idea.

Response by MSgt John Taylor made Oct 6 at 2016 1:22 PM

MSgt John Taylor — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 13:22:23 -0400

If the appropriate award is given for an ETS, then you've earned it. It's no different than a Silver Star for valor. When you become the Army Chief of Staff, you can do away with ETS awards, and require that NO ONE will ever be recognized for their actions and performance in non-combat.

I think that this is a weird topic for the Army, I had a roommate once that was prior service Army. He was awarded an MSM for being the top grad in his artillery class. In the USAF, you get a certificate and a pat on the back. You won't see an MSM in the Air Force until your a SrNCO.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Oct 6 at 2016 2:17 PM

SGT Dave Tracy — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 14:17:59 -0400

I don't know how best to say it, but you could always ask them to lose your paperwork. If they're like my old unit, you won't even need to ask!
LOL

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Oct 6 at 2016 4:17 PM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 16:17:22 -0400

please tell us the story behind this situation *grabs popcorn*

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made Oct 6 at 2016 5:26 PM

SSG Mark Franzen — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 17:26:34 -0400

WHAT WHY DO YOU SAY THAT? I DON'T GET IT PLEASE EXPLAIN TO ME.
SSG MARK FRANZEN US ARMY

Response by SPC Brad Pratt made Oct 6 at 2016 5:59 PM

SPC Brad Pratt — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 17:59:16 -0400

Back in '93 my squad leader (E-6) got RIFE'd 20 months before his retirement. Took terminal leave rather than attending his award ceremony.

Response by SSG Stephan Pendarvis made Oct 6 at 2016 6:22 PM

SSG Stephan Pendarvis — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 18:22:14 -0400

LOL!!! Just take it and roast it over a fire later...

Response by SSG Kyle Stromgren made Oct 6 at 2016 6:23 PM

SSG Kyle Stromgren — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 18:23:02 -0400

Just take it and leave it on your work station and not come back to pick it up even bullshit awards can help in the post service job hunt it fall under the CSM has probley told your section to give you an ETS award so just suck it up and be graicus about it stand look sharp and take one for the team

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 6 at 2016 7:38 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 19:38:31 -0400

Just say no?

Response by COL Brian Shea made Oct 6 at 2016 8:08 PM

COL Brian Shea — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 20:08:19 -0400

I will admit that an ETS award is a new concept for me. But I guess it's not much different than a PCS award. Both seem to say "You're leaving, so we should do something" as opposed to being recognized as events occur. That said, I would suggest talking to your immediate supervisor, who would likely be the person called on to write any award. Be prepared to explain why you don't want what has apparently become an SOP award. Hopefully your chain will listen. If they agree or not is up to them. If your service warrants an award and they decide to give you one, graciously accept it and move out smartly. Assuming it does, your commander must (or at least should) ensure consistency in the awards process and may be hard pressed to explain not giving a deserving Soldier an award when those of lesser performance have received one.

Response by SFC George Smith made Oct 6 at 2016 8:22 PM

SFC George Smith — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 20:22:33 -0400

give them the wrong forwarding address...

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 6 at 2016 8:37 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 20:37:43 -0400

Here is a thought, maybe they are happy you are leaving. I jest, without more information it is not prudent to answer.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 7 at 2016 12:19 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 00:19:31 -0400

You could always wipe your ass with it and hand it back to them. Make sure you eat Taco Bell the night before and drink lots of Guinness!!!

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Oct 7 at 2016 12:41 AM

MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 00:41:01 -0400

Whether the unit you are serving with has been a stellar experience or not be a team player and take the award they say you deserve for the job you've done. Afterward, if you are retiring and not expecting to wear a Class A uniform again. If you are staying in, then wear the award as required and let it get lost in your mind among the things you are more proud of.

Response by SSG Brian MacBain made Oct 7 at 2016 9:57 AM

SSG Brian MacBain — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 09:57:19 -0400

To me, it counts on the situation. I was stationed in Germany and was working in the orderly room (not by choice) when our unit got called for deployment for Desert Shield/Storm/Calm. When it came to loading up our equipment, it was a Saturday and no one (not the OPS SGT, 1SGT, XO, or the CDR) came in to help pack up the Company HQ items. It was just me (SGT at the time) did it all by myself. When we got into the AOR, I had to carry three weapons (two not mine), three laptops (in carrying cases) and my two duffle bags. Not one soldier offer to help. When we got back from deployment, our unit was being disbanded (7th CORPS), my PCS award was a Letter of Appreciation. I stood in front of the unit took it, shook hands, saluted. When I got back in formation, I rip it up and threw it away. It was a big slap in the face. That was my situation.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 7 at 2016 11:03 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 11:03:16 -0400

Do what I did, I was stationed in Korea and got in to some trouble, so my pcs award was a COA. But there were numerous people who got into a lot more trouble than I did, and did things way worse than I did, but they got AAMs, so I felt there was a lot of favoritism in my unit. So for my going away speech, I accepted the COA, and my commander told me to give a speech, so I looked at him and said, "I have nothing to say about this unit, I am leaving and that's all I care about." He looked at my like I was crazy, but he understood my point about the unfair justice system in the unit

Response by SFC Dave Mccain made Oct 7 at 2016 11:55 AM

SFC Dave Mccain — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 11:55:37 -0400

****warning.....this is horrible advice******
get flagged...

****this is good advice******
write yourself a nice little AAM. Steal the format from a recently approved one, and say thank you to those you served with.
The award is not really for you. The award is for your family and future grandchildren to look back on and be proud of you. Don't take that away from them.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2016 7:22 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 19:22:24 -0400

I was in the same boat for my last two PCS awards and my ETS award. I told them I'd be good with unit coins and maybe a beer (it was Germany after all), but instead I ended up writing half of each award. With the last two I was working in the training room and made it easy to skip the ceremonies by placing them in my SMIF file directly after they were approved. I always led with the reason that I did solely my job, and that I didn't do extra to merit anything more. I got more than a few verbal counselings about my position on it, and even tried to convince my last rater to convince my 1SG that I didn't need one. I was told to shove that idea and I was getting one whether I liked it or not. I also operated from the frugal standpoint of not wanting to buy a new rack or new devices. That didn't please the BDE level after one board but that's a different issue.

Response by SGT Donald Croswhite made Oct 13 at 2016 2:20 PM

SGT Donald Croswhite — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 14:20:02 -0400

Well here's the deal with that. Your award is NOT always about you. I worked in the training room for an HHC for 5 years. Yes, your ETS award is your final good bye, it is also your Commander's and Lieutenant's job to have a good grasp on timelines and planning. So when don't receive an award, or your award is late your LTC is seeing that the officers below him aren't doing there job. If a commander doesn't know when one of his soldiers is leaving service then he's not a good commander. I know it's a pain in the ars to sit down with a team leader or whoever and hash out what you've done in your career. But they want to look good on the next PowerPoint brief. And having a late or no ETS award reflects on them as a professional. It's one of the last Big Green Weenies you may have to deal with...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 12:20 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 12:20:23 -0500

Take the ETS award and put your ego away. Now, if at retirement and your award gets massively downgraded by your CoC than tell them to shove that up their collective asses.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 12:27 PM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 12:27:42 -0500

Awards are not just for the recipient. They are a means to show to other soldiers that the command cares, acknowledges the achievements of others and respects your effort and contribution to the team. It is in a way a team building moment. Take the award, you may appreciate it later...or even your children.

Response by LTC Tom Jacobs made Dec 27 at 2016 2:52 PM

LTC Tom Jacobs — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 14:52:07 -0500

He can refuse to accept the award and the unit will just mail it to his HOR.

Response by PFC Charles Sanders made Dec 27 at 2016 3:37 PM

PFC Charles Sanders — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 15:37:24 -0500

If they're making you write your own anyway just write yourself up a silver star. When it gets kicked back tell the CO/1SG that you have no idea why it wasn't approved, they'll just have to fix it.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 3:50 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 15:50:55 -0500

I get that you have some bad feelings, but if you refuse it you won't make the bad leaders stop and consider what they did to sour you. It won't send a message, all it will do is make them think you are a dirtbag. Just take it and walk away. Now if they try and make you write it, just "forget".

Response by SSG Michael Keohane made Dec 27 at 2016 4:00 PM

SSG Michael Keohane — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 16:00:01 -0500

Never had this problem, There was no such thing as an ETS award. On the night before my ETS, I, as Range Safety NCO, put two battalions of Infantry through a familiarization course with the sniper scope. I closed out the range, caught a few hours sleep, had breakfast, turned in my bedding, said goodbye to my platoon and friends and went to the orderly room and signed my DD214.

Response by SGT Glenn Powell made Dec 27 at 2016 4:02 PM

SGT Glenn Powell — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 16:02:51 -0500

I personally don't understand why everyone is making such a big deal about him not wanting an award, and I don't see a reason to need a back story.

It should be, in my opinion, made fairly simple to ask that you not be recognized if one so wishes. Part of respecting your unit and the Army means feeling respected by your unit, and those in it. I don't think it means he is disrespecting his unit, or hates anyone, he's not dropping it in the trash can, he's asking in a professional way to not be recognized, maybe he just don't want to be recognized for something he don't feel like he deserves, or maybe he feels others deserve it more, or maybe he feels it's a pointless gesture. He's getting out, so wanting to see his soldiers get recognized for their achievements instead seems kinda honorable.

I can also say as someone who has been out for about 7 years, graduated college, got a good job, no ARCOMS or Good Conduct Medals have done me any good on the outside, in fact in my career development class in college they told me to focus only on my skill set from college, not my military time on my resume because it held little value to a cilivian company.

The two ways I was told to use my time in the military was by 1. Stamping Veteran at the top of my resume (because it lets them know they may get a tax break if they hire me) 2. Use skills from the military as soft skills on my resume (such as Leadership ability, attention to detail, team oriented, hard worker etc), but primarily focused on civilian achievement.

For example I went to college for a BA in Web Design and Interactive Media. Potential employers wanted to see that I knew PHP, Jquery, and Adobe Suite programs etc, they could care less that I got an 7 or 8 ARCOM's or a Good Conduct Medal, when it comes to hiring. Most veterans need to beef down their military part of their resumes, not beef up, because it takes away from skills potential employers really care about.

Now I agree the easiest thing is probably just to take it, but if his last wish upon getting out is to not recieve an award, and he is getting out honorable, I feel his unit should respect his wishes not condemn him for it. What value is an award if it's shoved down your throat. Just my opinion...

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 4:35 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 16:35:30 -0500

Well, I was put in for an ETS award by my Command. I was put in for an MSM. The higher Command down graded it to a AAM. No reason given and the COL who down graded it never neet me. My Commander argued it to no avail. I did not want it either. The problem is you still get the award. It will just go into IPerms. You dont have to keep the paper.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 4:47 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 16:47:40 -0500

It's often a public show of gratitude for your service in the unit or your career. It's not suppose to bump up your promotion points right before you ETS. As far as benefits for the other soldier, if they see that the Military and/or the unit is grateful enough to commend you for your service, that could help retention and spotlight good Soldiers they should look toward being more like. It's certainly better than just getting a "thanks to SGT Dirtbag" at a final formation for your time

Response by SSG John Lambert made Dec 27 at 2016 4:49 PM

SSG John Lambert — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 16:49:39 -0500

If an NCO is ETS'ing then just leave it up to them. If they don't want one why tie up the NCO's time, his platoon sgt's time, 1SG time, SGM time on an award that'll get kicked back numerous times that isn't even wanted in the first place? For some of us an award wasn't the "end all end all". I think a lot of NCO's would rather just get a coin and handshake. At least your civilian friends think the coins are cool.

Response by SGT Michael Wade made Dec 27 at 2016 4:54 PM

SGT Michael Wade — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 16:54:11 -0500

I was told I should of written my own ETS award so I didn't receive one... Lead the way lol

Response by SP6 Joseph Lane made Dec 27 at 2016 5:11 PM

SP6 Joseph Lane — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 17:11:42 -0500

I kind of understand because I too had a problem with an award during a retirement ceremony. I accepted it but left it in the trash upon departure.
Not before the CSM and I had a discussion.
I told him I thought the ceremony was to honor a soldier's service yet I am here to receive the same level award for 20 years of service he would give a soldier he observed out his window picking up trash others had passed up.
He acknowledged but was pissed no less.
My award was two days late reaching the general's desk so he decided the thing to do was downgrade to the minimum.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 5:15 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 17:15:04 -0500

Awards are good, but to often Awards not given based on Merit, but instead based on Rank.
Why do some higher ups beLeiVe you must be a certain rank to deserve a certain award ?

Response by SFC Jeffrey Barber made Dec 27 at 2016 5:25 PM

SFC Jeffrey Barber — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 17:25:35 -0500

You might be surprised at how many civilian companies are interested in your awards. Although they do not know what the awards mean, they do equate it to you doing a good job and when your peers will have awards, if many military members are applying for the same job, they might wander why snuffy as X # of awards and you only have a couple. So look further then the next couple of steps in front of you and accept the award. You earned it ....

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 5:27 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 17:27:57 -0500

Take the award. Like stated below, your kids (or even you) will one day find it somewhere and reflect on your service. It probably won't help you find a civilian job but you'll be happy you took in 30-40 years from now.

Response by SSG Justin Lewandoski made Dec 27 at 2016 6:37 PM

SSG Justin Lewandoski — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 18:37:11 -0500

Drop and beat your face! It's time to toughen up buttercup. Sounds to me that you were a POS soldier and they wanted you out.

Response by 1SG Scott Fredrickson made Dec 27 at 2016 7:27 PM

1SG Scott Fredrickson — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 19:27:02 -0500

Awards are supposed to be for service rendered and the level rendered, sometimes the award is downgraded for mutiple reasons. At the end of your duty if you get an award taken it and move out. Will civilians care? Maybe maybe not it's all.in how you word your resume. But most of the time a civilian doesn't know the difference between and AAM and a MSM, it's on your writing skills. You didn't serve for awards, you know what you did, don't discredit your service by leaving on a bad note.

Response by SP5 Paul Riley made Dec 27 at 2016 7:29 PM

SP5 Paul Riley — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 19:29:39 -0500

I never got an ETS award but I did throw away all the awards I got in OIF right after I received them. I am retired now and I would do it again.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 7:30 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 19:30:06 -0500

What is an ETS award?

Response by PFC Ian DeGraff made Dec 27 at 2016 7:44 PM

PFC Ian DeGraff — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 19:44:05 -0500

I think the best ETS award you can give to anybody is a DD214. My ETS award was a reduction to PFC and 45/45 3 or 4 months before I supposed to ETS. >:( Still got out with an honorable and a good re-enlistment. Did IRR until my mandatory time was up. :D

Response by MSgt Dutch DeGroot made Dec 27 at 2016 7:52 PM

MSgt Dutch DeGroot — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 19:52:03 -0500

As you say you would want your soldiers to get credit. Seems someone in your chain of command felt the same way and IMHO you should feel the same as when you recommended one of your soldiers for an award. Take it be gracious and then if you wish file it. These things may mean something to you later. Had a certificate when I left the Army in 1970 with the presidents signature on it years later he was gracious enough to sign over the top of the printed signature. Now I cherish it. Dutch DeGroot MSG, USAF, (ret)

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 7:54 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 19:54:09 -0500

Just suck it up and accept the award. I did that after my OIF deployment 10 years ago, because I was mad at the unit and had "my integrity". Turns out, I was a petulant child-disappointed my next higher. Learn from an old mustang...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 8:02 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 20:02:52 -0500

Some of you are butt hurt about him not wanting the award which is laughable, others are saying get it for future generations so they can be proud of you. I am willing to bet if he is turning it down he has awards that he is actually proud of for going down range and other achievements not just thanks for completing your contract.

Response by MSgt R Roberts made Dec 27 at 2016 8:24 PM

MSgt R Roberts — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 20:24:36 -0500

Personally, i would take the award. Some people in hiring positions look at you resume and may ask why didnt he get an award when he left service. I do when i hire people here and it makes me wonder what if anything, they may have done not to recieve. Just a thought

Response by MAJ Luca Luca made Dec 27 at 2016 8:56 PM

MAJ Luca Luca — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 20:56:59 -0500

Be benevolent about it and accept the award. Whether you feel it is smoke or not, not accepting it may have lasting effects, you may need a reference some day, you may need to show a trail of awesome, you never know. In the end, it is a just a piece of paper, you can take it, smile, shake a hand, toss it in the drawer...

Response by SFC Dante Alanis made Dec 27 at 2016 8:57 PM

SFC Dante Alanis — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 20:57:14 -0500

Sometimes it is for morale and to incentivize younger up and coming troops. That no matter how trivial their contributions may seem to themselves, they are important to the unit and will be appreciated. God knows I appreciated our cooks, mechanics, fuelers, medics, clerks, MPs and everyone else who made my career a very fulfilling one. Thank you for your service.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 9:00 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 21:00:43 -0500

Take the award. It's for your family anyway. While we may know the politics involved in who gets what your family does not. To them it's a big deal even if they don't say it. Also, for some leaders it is a big deal and one way for them to say thank you TO YOU for service to the nation. At the end of the day the award is from the Army, USMC, etc... Not the person(s) who made things abnormally challenging.

Response by SFC Lawrence Born made Dec 27 at 2016 9:35 PM

SFC Lawrence Born — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 21:35:50 -0500

Here is MY story for the time I turned down a PCS award. First I will say that I NEVER did my job in the Army with a mindset of "gee, can I get an award for this?" I did what I did for soldiers. My last assignment before I ETS'd from active duty (I subsequently came back as an activated reservist and retired) was with USAG Vicenza. I was assigned to the unit for just shy of 4 years. The entire time I served, first as an E5 then an E6, in an E7 Garrison Religious Support NCOIC billet. For half of that time I was also the Headquarters Platoon Platoon Sergeant. Further, as an E5 I won the USAG Europe NCO of the year competition and placed second in the world wide competition in
Virginia. All this while also running the Chapel's NAF and AF operations ( a job usually done by an O3 or O4) and receiving 2 perfect scores from the GAO auditing staff. When it came time to ETS my boss (an O5 Chaplain) put me in for an MSM as I had been operating WAAAY above my pay grade for years. It was concurred on by our Garrison Commander but had to go to SETAF for approval. I had a buddy that worked in their S1 shop and happened to be picking him up to go to lunch one day. As I stood there I watch him processing BRONZE STARS for all of the E8-9s and O4s and above who had just returned from deployment. ALL of these jokers had been working staff jobs on BAF and had NEVER left. I asked him to check on my award if he could so he went into the civilian ADJs office and I heard that DOUCHE say " I don't care WHAT he did, he is only a SSG and we don't give ANY SSG an award above ARCOM." I was so pissed that after lunch I told my boss what had happened and told him NOT to resubmit for an ARCOM. I had 5 already and another would mean nothing. The next day I saw the Garrison Commander in the gym (we worked out at the same time every day and went to Mass together) and told him what had happened he apologized but said that was a SETAF policy he thought they would make an exception to in my case. I told him that if he saw that civilian I would appreciate it if he told him to choke on a damn ARCOM for me. He laughed. I had a great going away with some cool gifts and all my comrades which meant more than the award could have. Accepting what they were willing to "give" me would have only made me even more angry. The very idea of awards being tied in ANY way to rank is just plain embarrassing.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 9:37 PM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 21:37:06 -0500

This is the type of NCO the army should be trying to retain

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 10:12 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 22:12:28 -0500

Was never a problem in USMC that I was aware of, because awards were hard to come by. Other than being recognized for Valor or a specific achievement, awards were for End of Tour or End of Service. If the member was also retiring and requested a ceremony or formation then the appropriate End of Service award would be presented, and often roses for the wife. There were unwritten accepted norms regarding level of award based on rank, but usually not so much so for Valor. Most enlisted MOH citations over the years ended with "he gallantly gave his life for his country". I don't ever recall anyone being told to write up their own award or refusing any award.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 10:22 PM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 22:22:56 -0500

Hey - from my foxhole, if this is an ETS award it's cumulative of all of your service. Not just this particular unit. So go ahead and take the award. Make sure that you mostly wrote about the proud accomplishments you did. Since you will be writing it yourself, that should be easy.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 11:29 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 23:29:57 -0500

If what you say is true then it shouldn't be a problem. Eventually you will be asked to write the award, at which time you can do what Soldiers all over the world have been good for centuries - stall until it's too late for it to matter.
If someone DOES step up and writes you an award, then grin and bear it. It means that someone other than you sees that you contributed to the readiness and strength of your unit. Respect their effort and receive the award with the honor and dignity expected of a Noncommissioned Officer.

Response by SFC John Giersdorf made Dec 27 at 2016 11:46 PM

SFC John Giersdorf — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 23:46:29 -0500

Obviously it's a "it depends" kind of thing. Take the award if it's what you deserved, however if it's an insult (for reasons like the staff officers that didn't do a damn thing are getting bronze stars and the enlisted are getting ARCOMs - been there, done that...) then it's an entirely different issue. People have jobs to do, those include writing and delivering awards. You should insist people do their jobs.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2016 12:50 AM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 00:50:57 -0500

As a former member of the same unit, I fully agree with this sentiment. I served with SGT Camron and he was one of the few NCOs who took care of his soldiers in the unit. I'm sure some of you lifers will try to flame this post but the fact of the matter is, he is right.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2016 2:17 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 02:17:23 -0500

First, I would check to see when your exit interview is. Every unit I have been to has given me one. That would be the time to air your concerns. Take the award, even if you have to write it. If the place is as bad as the implication is, you probably more than earned it!

Response by MAJ Thomas Amsler made Dec 28 at 2016 7:21 AM

MAJ Thomas Amsler — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 07:21:29 -0500

Having seen this issue from both sides, my personal opinion is this: I did and do my job to the best of my ability because that is how I was raised, and what I believe. I think the ubiquity of end-of-tour awards has rendered them almost meaningless. Many of my Marines and troops performed truly outstanding work, and I always wrote them up for the highest awards I thought appropriate, knowing that the chain of command was going to downgrade them- but I wanted to recognize them. I always pulled them aside and explained that I wasn't "giving" them an award, but that I, personally, thought that they deserved it. As for myself, I have actual heroes in my family, and I feel that by accepting an award of this nature that I am doing a disservice to their memory. Napoleon said that men would die for bits of ribbon and metal when no rationale reason could persuade them to…and I think I'm smart enough to know the difference.

Response by SGT Jason Herbert made Dec 28 at 2016 7:50 AM

SGT Jason Herbert — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 07:50:04 -0500

Understanding your not a special snowflake is a leading edge on getting out. No one cares about your awards when they hire you. They only care if you could make their job easier. And don't list every god damned aar on your resume either. Obviously if you have any valor awards put that down but we laugh at bronze stars because we saw how standard they where for an e-7 as a post deployment award.

You want to truly not care? Take the award, accept it and put it in a trunk with your fatigues.

Don't let your lower enlisted see you bitter. They will think your "one of those guys who couldn't cut it in the army". If you want to show them that there is life on the outside and be subjective to re-up. Just get out and make a better life.

Response by CW4 Woody Jones made Dec 28 at 2016 8:36 AM

CW4 Woody Jones — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 08:36:02 -0500

Just take whatever award they give you, salute smartly and put it in the box with whatever gear you're gonna keep when you get out. Before I retired, our S1 informed me that I needed to write up my retirement award and have it to him by such-and-such date. My response made it clear to him that awards really weren't that important to me so he could just let the chips fall wherever. He ended up writing up the award. My plan was to quietly sign out and go home to the swamps, but in the 101st the retirement ceremony was mandatory in those days. I was proud to see how many of our young troopers came to the ceremony, though. Awards may not mean much to you, but they do to the troops you serve with. They know who really does or does not deserve recognition anyway, so making some sort of statement about the unit by refusing an award will just be preaching to the choir anyway.

Response by TSgt Julie Miller made Dec 28 at 2016 9:21 AM

TSgt Julie Miller — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 09:21:51 -0500

Been retired now since 05. Got a few awards that are still packed away...not because I didn't appreciate them, been busy remodeling a house.... Learned a few things though while active. An award is Not for the civilians, it is for us, the military. If we did not recognize service and commitment, we would fail to develop good leaders....and yes I have known a few fools get awards.... If your unit feels you deserve this, then provide everything you are asked to....set the example, show your troops what Eprit de Corps is. I too was asked to "write" my own EPR and an award... When I asked my supervisor why he bluntly told me, because I should know and always be aware of what I am doing and how I want to be seen..... also, it was much needed training for the future... I eventually had to write over 70 LOE's in theater in Kuwait, for my troops before end of deployment... Forced me to learn to pay attention to them, what they did or did not do daily, our mission and how well we completed it and how to convey that to their leadership back home. Once I started doing that, it made me a better NCO and taught me to really keep track of what was going on around me and with my troops. Once I got home I was slammed with having to write two EPR's with damn little to go on..... no thanks to my Shop chief.

Take it, appreciate it... Hang it on your wall, and be proud... but, if you still think it's a waste of time in the military, that attitude will carry over into a civilian job.... and some of those jobs employ fellow former military members.

Response by MSgt Jeff Greene made Dec 28 at 2016 10:37 AM

MSgt Jeff Greene — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 10:37:25 -0500

When I retired from the USAF my commander asked me to write my own MSM. I told him I would provide bullets but the award would do little for me after retirement. I did, he did and I received the award in front of my family. It was a big deal to them. I felt like I earned it but should have received it earlier when it could have helped toward promotion.

Response by MSG Robert Mills made Dec 28 at 2016 10:39 AM

MSG Robert Mills — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 10:39:50 -0500

Yip awards systems pretty much are a crock, unless you are getting one lol, plenty of people have written or been told to write their own awards, NCOERS, and many other things over a career. I actually despise this activity to its core. All that is is a bunch of lazy NCO's and Officers that do not care about soldiers. I blame both because when it comes to awards this is the only time that shit rolls up hill lmao. Officers are the worst, and they are extremely lazy when recommendations come up for awards they do not want to spend the time and energy on to see that it gets to the right approval authority. So they blanket some bullshit off a ARCOM and send it back as a downgrade fully knowing what they are doing.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Dec 28 at 2016 10:47 AM

LTC Paul Labrador — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 10:47:53 -0500

If you're ETSing, you're never going to wear it.....so what's the point in being obstinate about receiving one? If you really feel that strongly about it, pitch it in the trash as soon as you walk out the door.

Response by SSG Michael Burdiss made Dec 28 at 2016 11:03 AM

SSG Michael Burdiss — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 11:03:31 -0500

I've seen top notch soldiers who weren't in the click get bullshit ETS and Pcs Awards. And I've seen race based awards given to slackers way above their performance based on race of CMD race. The Army is a microcosm of society. It doesn't run by the book or in a vacuum. It sucks often, but it's the best in the world.

Response by LCpl Justin Norman made Dec 28 at 2016 11:30 AM

LCpl Justin Norman — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 11:30:48 -0500

I have a few awards and things like that myself that i didnt care for but still accepted not for me but for my kids. I have 3 kids and they are to young to understand what these awards mean but someday when they are older i want them to know what there father did big or small and know that they can be proud of their father so in my opinion take the award worst case scenario you put it in a file folder that takes up minimal space and toss it in your military trunk and lock it away for when they want to onow more about you. Like many on this post have said its not just about you so much as it is about your loved ones.

Response by SGT Jim Tough made Dec 28 at 2016 11:38 AM

SGT Jim Tough — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 11:38:10 -0500

I med boarded out after 15.5 years...I didn't even get a good bye.....never mind an ETS award....I was considered useless by the CoC I guess.....

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2016 12:37 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 12:37:44 -0500

AFAIK, you can't clear without one, or a memo justifying why you aren't eligible to get one.

Response by SGT Jim Ramge, MBA made Dec 28 at 2016 12:45 PM

SGT Jim Ramge, MBA — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 12:45:36 -0500

For one, in moving on to the civilian sector, you better figure out what you've done or you won't be able to furnish a resume. Secondly, you will never get promoted, much less, earn a pay raise, because they expect you to document what you've done for them yearly! Having been passed over for two PCS awards for not requesting or pushing was a mistake on my part. Would have added to my already simple load I had upon my medical retirement pre 9/11. You must learn that no one is going to take care of you, but you! Bad taste or not, take your earned award if you did... If you didn't, explain to your Command why you didn't earn it so they can improve those things upon your departure! As far as the other smartassed conjectures here, ignore them and move on!

Response by SGT Jason Trefil made Dec 28 at 2016 12:48 PM

SGT Jason Trefil — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 12:48:42 -0500

I'd tell them, "Hey guys, I appreciate the thought and gesture, but I don't want any personal recognition. Thank you for your support!"

Response by PFC Kyle Runyan made Dec 28 at 2016 1:39 PM

PFC Kyle Runyan — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 13:39:52 -0500

I had a squad leader who got an award for "doing work" that myself and 2 others did. I worked late 5 nights a week for 3+ months 12+ hr days and single handedly took care of over 3/4 of the Ft. Lewis ROTC ammunition residue. My squad leader put me in for an award and was told "we don't give PFC's and Spec-4's AAM awards. They go to the NCO's". He accepted the award and set it on the ground after formation and walked off. He stood up for those under him who did the work. I had great respect for that man.

Response by SgtMaj Anthony Goss made Dec 28 at 2016 1:45 PM

SgtMaj Anthony Goss — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 13:45:57 -0500

My opinion may be different from others, but as far as a I'm concerned you should take it regardless of whether you like the unit or not. One, they took the time to write it up present it. Two, think of how many that left and didn't get one. If you don't like the unit, the people or both isn't going to matter if you accept the award because you're leaving anyway.

Response by SPC(P) Cody Patterson made Dec 28 at 2016 1:51 PM

SPC(P) Cody Patterson — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 13:51:30 -0500

I would just take the award and move on. I wanted to reject my ets award, but figured it wasnt worth my time. Wish I'd gotten more than an AAM as my ets award. Got told by our training room that all ARCOMS were being pushed back. Later found out the other fellow who was leaving a month after me got his ARCOM and was told my leadership was just too lazy to write up the award. Hell the actual statement explaining why I got the award was just name swapped.

Response by MSG Clark Shumway made Dec 28 at 2016 1:53 PM

MSG Clark Shumway — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 13:53:01 -0500

Some of us didn't get an award from three units when we PCS'd. Lazy ass command. Oh and an NCOER from people I have never worked with before.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2016 1:58 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 13:58:32 -0500

Just take it like a professional. When you ETS, trash them on social media. This seems like a popular option.

Response by MSG Clark Shumway made Dec 28 at 2016 1:58 PM

MSG Clark Shumway — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 13:58:41 -0500

Some of us didn't get an award from three units when we PCS'd. Lazy ass command. Oh and an NCOER from people I have never worked with before. I love the comments You are not an E9 so you are not entitled to that award...Worthless Command...The Army really has no leadership and the ones that are in are in a leadership position are crooked.

Response by SGT David T. made Dec 28 at 2016 2:28 PM

SGT David T. — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 14:28:09 -0500

I will share the story of my so called ETS award. My Platoon Sergeant actually took the time to put me in for a MSM. The bullets were strong and quantified. To make a long story short the BC summarily downgraded it to a COA. So we have the final formation and I was presented it. I said thank you, saluted and all that. Once we were dismissed I calmly and quietly ripped it up and tossed it in the trash. I didn't make a scene, although I wanted to. I just didn't want to give them any reason to try and slap me with UCMJ right before getting out. It was basically a slap in the face under the guise of giving an award. I would have rather got nothing at all, at least I could respect the CoC for being honest. I also felt kind of bad for my NCO, who had spend a great deal of time writing it up. In the end it all worked out. I found a great career as an Army civilian and am loving it. I had a bad taste when I got out too, but that was another life lol.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2016 3:35 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 15:35:41 -0500

I don't believe in ETS or PCS awards, unless the soldier did something above and beyond. Otherwise, they are just like participation trophies...

Response by SGT Tony Muro made Dec 28 at 2016 3:36 PM

SGT Tony Muro — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 15:36:04 -0500

At least you got offered an award. My unit was not helping anyone that was not re-enlisting. They were too busy getting ready to get redeployed. At the end of the day, I knew what I did for the unit.

Response by MSgt Eric Roseberry made Dec 28 at 2016 3:47 PM

MSgt Eric Roseberry — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 15:47:19 -0500

If you are tasked to write you own award, simply hand the package back to your chain of command during your outprocessing. Apparently, they won't care.

Response by SSG Christopher Duffee made Dec 28 at 2016 4:19 PM

SSG Christopher Duffee — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 16:19:36 -0500

Sounds like maybe someone only getting an AAM and pissed

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2016 4:27 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 16:27:17 -0500

A lot of folks have some good advice below...the award is as much for you as for everyone else, be they family or the junior Soldiers standing in formation. On the off chance that you are basically known for being a poor Soldier, I'd say it's fair to be at least honest about it. Otherwise, take the award. I also have to admit, I find the "I know what I did" argument a bit sanctimonious. Not getting a PCS/ETS award shows negligence nowadays. Either you are a sub-par Soldier or your S-1 and command team at the BDE level don't care about you.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2016 5:04 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 17:04:07 -0500

If you would rather see your soldiers get credit, why not submit awards for them. It would set a great example for your soldiers and give them a good lasting impression of you.

Response by Kurtis Roers made Dec 28 at 2016 5:38 PM

Kurtis Roers — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 17:38:45 -0500

Wait, some replies were *helpful*?!?!?

Alright, guys and gals, someone fucked up, big-time! You all *know* that being helpful is forbidden!

Lol! Glad you found a few ideas. Good luck in your transition active-duty to veteran.

Response by PO1 Rueben Davis made Dec 28 at 2016 6:17 PM

PO1 Rueben Davis — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 18:17:06 -0500

EtS awards are generally garbage and leadership is too dense to figure it out.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2016 6:39 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 18:39:19 -0500

Take the award.
You might not want or like the award you are getting and you are leaving the Army with a bad taste in your mouth but that doesn't mean you can leave and act like a jerk.
Just except the award and move on. Pack it away some where and maybe some day you will be proud of that award and what you didn't in the military

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2016 6:45 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 18:45:47 -0500

Get fat, get flagged, no award. A civilian company won't care if you're fat either. Try to do it as close to your ETS date as possible to spare your 1SG the need to track you in ABC. Your protest is symbolic, your leadership wants to recognize you, just let them then go be a civilian and ignore it. Don't have it added to your dd214 either.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2016 6:58 PM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 18:58:29 -0500

Say "I don't want an ETS award, thank you."

Response by SGT Mathew Norman made Dec 28 at 2016 7:15 PM

SGT Mathew Norman — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 19:15:26 -0500

I just said, dont worry top this arcom wont help me on the outside. I appreciate the thought and effort.

Response by SSG Grant Hansen made Dec 28 at 2016 7:44 PM

SSG Grant Hansen — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 19:44:53 -0500

What award is it? Is is a letter of commendation? An ARCOM? An MSM?

Did you suck at your job or did you kick ass?

Honestly, I would take the award, and if you really don't want it, just throw it away when you get home.

If you act ungrateful in front of the unit, that is how everyone will think of you from then on.

Response by CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2016 8:09 PM

CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 20:09:21 -0500

The awards clerk in your S1 shop might have some ideas.

Response by SPC Tarence Bailey made Dec 28 at 2016 9:03 PM

SPC Tarence Bailey — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 21:03:45 -0500

Well... Be thankful your unit thought enough of you as a soldier to an award instead of complaining about getting one. Some units are still playing good ol boy games and do not offer the same things to all warriors in the same unit. Myself for example was given 48 hours to do a PT test or ETS with a 50% loss of function in my left foot and was on profile. And fresh off of deployment. I would've loved to have gotten a fair shake let alone an ETS award letter.. Or how about a promotion before I got out to E5? That would've been nice. But oh well!!! As soon as I got out and went to the VA they rated me at 100% and now I can't even work. So thanks Army for the Award Letter and Promotion. Even of it only exists in my head

Response by 1SG Larry Taggart made Dec 28 at 2016 9:44 PM

1SG Larry Taggart — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 21:44:22 -0500

You keep your mouth shut and take the award. It is a symbol of gratitude by the Army and your unit. The has been time spent by someone in your unit to write this award, to review and than rewrite than process the award and track the award. You now want to be a smug asshat and demand not to receive this award. There is no place in the Army for this kind of arrogance.

Response by SGT Johnny Owens made Dec 28 at 2016 9:51 PM

SGT Johnny Owens — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 21:51:04 -0500

I was honored to receive my award, and I appreciated the recognition for the sweat I left behind.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2016 10:09 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 22:09:04 -0500

Here is the thing, an award does far more than just give the SM recognition. It serves are a positive re-enforcement of morale. Most SM could care less about being recognized for what they do. This however shows to the unit that the command does in fact see the positive as well as the negative and rewards good conduct. So the award isn't just for you, it serves as a way that all soldiers that work their ass off to see that their work is actually seen.

Response by SFC Steven Harvey made Dec 29 at 2016 1:48 AM

SFC Steven Harvey — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 01:48:07 -0500

What's it really matter? You're not writing it and if you are just don't do one. Awards are handed out like candy other than valor based awards. Don't fret it and just roll with it, pissing off the CoC out of spite will only hurt you not them.

Response by SPC Matthew Rouse made Dec 29 at 2016 2:05 AM

SPC Matthew Rouse — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 02:05:19 -0500

I got shit for things I still don't understand why, but hey it sure looks good at the bottom of a storage bin.

Response by SGT Nick Dubuisson made Dec 29 at 2016 2:43 AM

SGT Nick Dubuisson — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 02:43:17 -0500

the only Award I received when I ets was a nice long run, by run I mean being chased by other NCOs and my troops, and then a nice cold bath in the full, muddy ditch by the wash rack!

Response by CPO William A. Bullard Jr. made Dec 29 at 2016 7:34 AM

CPO William A. Bullard Jr. — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 07:34:41 -0500

Awards are generally speaking only so much B/S. Watching the talking heads from the Puzzle Palace in Arlington [can we knock the place down and sell it to Ivanka for a $1 so she can build golf courses and condos???] the omnipresent talking head from JCS [Kirby from State was the most ludicrous] all resemble nothing so much more than a Banana Republic Dictatorship Generalissimo. I knew awards were only so much B/S when I saw a USN CPO get a Naval Achievement Medal award for correcting an engineering casualty that he precipitated in the first place. The predominance today of awards is a hall mark indicator of an institution in latter stages of decay and collapse.

Response by SPC West Burgos made Dec 29 at 2016 8:22 AM

SPC West Burgos — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 08:22:59 -0500

When I got my medical discharge I told the commander that I refuse to accept. I had my E-5 pulled just before being pinned bc I was put on a profile due to the injury getting me the chapter. They thought an AAM would be good enough.
So, my last day the CO called me to the front. Proceeded to hand it me, I saluted and told him I refuse and would rather have what I already earned. I thought it was about to get ugly until my old platoon sgt pulled me aside after formation, No one could hear what I was telling the commander. he asked what I said, I told him. He took the stripes off my replacement and handed it to me. Said I earned it. He said I was a huge pain in his ass but I was a good soldier. That's better than the paper I was "awarded".

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2016 8:49 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 08:49:22 -0500

I was in a unit for 4 years and deployed with a small team from that unit. I got an award while deployed but not when I ETS'ed. I didn't want one either. My award was my Dragon Stamp and DD214. I went back to the company area and said my goodbyes to everyone there. Thanked the CDR and 1SG. Then tracked down all my troops and PSG and thanks all of them before leaving. That was the best way I felt I could go out. I had a blast at that unit and made a lot of great friends. I didn't need an award to show me or my loved ones my efforts while with them. If I were you though just take it and move on. It's not like you'll have to worry about a Class A uniform inspection again.

Response by PO2 Jeffery Reiser made Dec 29 at 2016 8:52 AM

PO2 Jeffery Reiser — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 08:52:57 -0500

Exercise a little humility and accept the damn award! Continue with your due diligence to be an advocate for your personnel and ensure they receive their due recognition. The bosses know who their performers are and their posers also!

Response by MSgt Wayne Morris made Dec 29 at 2016 9:48 AM

MSgt Wayne Morris — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 09:48:59 -0500

I have seen this on occasion when still serving. Most just felt they would have rather been recognized for their hard work when it actually may have helped them get their next rank. I remember early in my career being told that first termers could not get awards regardless and originally thought that the narratives were Xeroxed out in the basement of the Pentagon since they all sounded the same. That said, take it, throw it in a desk drawer and move on with your new challenges.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2016 10:31 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 10:31:10 -0500

Just take the award, say thank you and drive on. If you hate the unit that much the quickest way out is the path of least resistance.

Response by Sgt Gerardo Casteleiro made Dec 29 at 2016 10:36 AM

Sgt Gerardo Casteleiro — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 10:36:55 -0500

No one should be above being recognized for their achievements. If you reject other's recognition of you, you communicate to them that to be held in high esteem by them is not important to you. The term for that is ingratitude.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2016 10:47 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 10:47:35 -0500

Well if your unit is like mine you would be O.C.S. for a year or more before it got approved anyway.. so just keep your head down and quietly leave.
I joke as I see people inprocess that they should start their PCS awards now so maybe they can get it before they leave.. lol

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2016 11:31 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 11:31:35 -0500

At least you are getting one, I left my last duty station without one, because the one I was given was invalid due to the fact that it had the wrong social security number on it, you would think after being someplace for 7 years they would of had it right, accept the award and leave

Response by MSgt Mike Stuckey made Dec 29 at 2016 11:36 AM

MSgt Mike Stuckey — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 11:36:29 -0500

I had a young SSGT getting out after his second enlistment. He approached me and stated that he in no shape or form wanted a Separation medal. I gave him the standard rebuttal that such a medal is good for the family to see, and good to have incase he decided to return to duty in the guard or reserves. He elected to not get the medal.

Flash forward to about 6 months later. I get a phone call from a 1st Sgt from a guard unit in this kid's home state. Turns out that to this unit

Response by SFC Craig Starr made Dec 29 at 2016 12:39 PM

SFC Craig Starr — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 12:39:17 -0500

Talk to your 1SG. He advises the commander. If you are not willing to accept an award that reflects your contributions to your unit. You either didn't contribute much (fell short of meeting your own expectations), your unit didn't appreciate what you have done (which is a bigger problem that the 1SG should address with unit leaders ) or leadership is lazy or lacks the skills to properly white an award or inject in your unit awards process.

All the above start with you and your 1SG with your concerns. He or She is the communication bridge to advising leadership on unit concerns. I'm everyone in unit felt as you do, your unit as awhile is not striving for excellence, operatin

Response by SPC Rob Lewis made Dec 29 at 2016 12:57 PM

SPC Rob Lewis — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 12:57:06 -0500

My last unit when I was active used awards as a bribe to try and get you to re-enlist. After I had made it clear I was getting out my award was pulled (no surprise to me). Just chalked it up to unit politics and went home.

Response by SFC Robert White made Dec 29 at 2016 12:57 PM

SFC Robert White — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 12:57:52 -0500

it is simple. just tell your supervisor that you do not want an ETS award and that a mug or something different is more apperciated. but as it was mentioned before, sitting on the other side of the interview table and reading through a DD214. i would have to say, to see no awards listed would set me to think you did just enough to show up for PT and that is about it. in a day and age where BSM are given out as easy as a certificate of achievement. i see that awards mean very little anymore but none the less, BE, KNOW, DO. Be professional. Know yourself and your soliders. DO, Actions NOT WORDS. set the example that you want your soldiers to emmulate. regardless of your feelings towards the unit. in short. SUCK IT BUTTERCUP.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2016 1:51 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 13:51:07 -0500

First of all we don't know what the future holds. You and many others Soldiers have gotten out and come back in. Then that award means something. You have no idea what that civilian company values or understands about military service. Your boss could be a retiree who scrutinizes your military service during the hiring process. Lastly, the chain of command obviously cares about your future and wants to do their part to set you up for success. While it is a military award, you can reword things to make sense on a resume for a business. You could let a future employer know that your professionalism and leadership have been recognized and you have received awards for it from a previous employer.

Response by 1SG Jerome Schumacher made Dec 29 at 2016 2:01 PM

1SG Jerome Schumacher — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 14:01:47 -0500

ETS Award? WTF? The only ETS Award I remember you got was a Good Conduct Medal and a DD-214.

Response by MSG Jay Jackson made Dec 29 at 2016 2:09 PM

MSG Jay Jackson — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 14:09:39 -0500

Look at it like this. How much time did you miss your family? How many times did the job suck but you did it anyway because it was you duty? I always felt awards we there to let you know your superiors cared and understood the tasks you performed to a high standard. In DS a fellow NCO of mine got a BSM for being the shit detail guy. He did it for two months straight. I ask the CSM later why? He told me that he never once received a complain about that detail, and that every time he used one of the latrines it was fully stocked and clean!! And as others have said one day your grand kids may be looking through you stuff and see the award. Take that award from a grateful nation and ride off into the sunset.

Response by SFC Randall Atchison made Dec 29 at 2016 2:25 PM

SFC Randall Atchison — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 14:25:21 -0500

I always thought the Army was way over the top in handing out awards. My Father who was a retired E-9 in the Navy (Made E-9 in 14 years by the way) had 1 award that was his when he retired. The Navy Good Conduct Medal. The others were Unit or Service Awards such as WWII medals. When I was in the Army (72-93) I received end of tour awards also. They were simply participation awards. Awards for doing your job.

Response by SSG Samuel Fortune made Dec 29 at 2016 2:47 PM

SSG Samuel Fortune — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 14:47:07 -0500

Free points.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Dec 29 at 2016 3:22 PM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 15:22:34 -0500

As someone who worked in several units early in my career that had the attitude of no one needs awards, I say take it, you don't know when the next one will come. Two if your soldiers deserve awards submitted them for it.

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2016 4:02 PM

1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 16:02:19 -0500

This will sound a bit cheeses.
"It's how you finish the game that counts" "not if you win or lose"
So finish like a Man with your head up and take the award. Do a about face and move out smartly.
We all get pissed off at times and want to act out. Good luck

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2016 4:32 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 16:32:38 -0500

Just a couple of thoughts. These also shouldn't get you in trouble.

1 Did you try just asking not to receive the award?

2 You did say you will probably end up writing it anyway. Just don't write the award. When asked about it tell them you can't write your own award.

I will say I have been in your shoes before. When I was in Okinawa my battle didn't receive an award and she was not flagged nor barred. So I didn't receive an award either. I felt it was them saying I was better than her. I still received an award but it's not on my records. I still have the award I just don't wear it or have it on my ERB.

Response by CPO Bill Penrod made Dec 29 at 2016 6:27 PM

CPO Bill Penrod — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 18:27:15 -0500

Maybe it will fit nicely in your shadow box. Spit that bad taste out and get hot. Show some leadership.................

Response by SFC Bruce Pettengill made Dec 29 at 2016 6:31 PM

SFC Bruce Pettengill — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 18:31:10 -0500

I left active duty in 1979 and again in 1985, I never received this. This award is not meant to harm you, but to show appreciation. When I retired from the US Army reserves in 2003 they messed up my paper work so I never got paid for my final weekend, no thanks. no nothing. even if its a form letter or award it's better then what they gave out 13 years ago.

Response by SGT Chris Taylor made Dec 29 at 2016 6:33 PM

SGT Chris Taylor — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 18:33:15 -0500

My commander called me a week after I was honorably discharged and said he wanted to have formation on Friday to present my award.

I was like Sir I already left and I am on terminal leave. They never mailed it to me and was never put into my record. So yea I can see this happening...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2016 7:31 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 19:31:30 -0500

You dont. Take your award, trust me, I ETS in 2006 and joined the Guard, I miss my unit almost daily and the award was a reflection of what we did together. Its never about you or me, its about the greater good, take that award and give a good professional speech about how we can win anything through team work

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2016 7:33 PM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 19:33:59 -0500

Regardless if your ending your career or not, as an NCO you know in your gut that no one leaves an organization without recognition. Finish your time strong and take your last award on the way out.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2016 8:38 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 20:38:20 -0500

I was awarded an AAM as a PCS award when I was SGT. I felt it was an insult for 3+ years in the unit. After the CDR pinned the medal on me and said the floor was mine to speak, I simply told him "I have nothing to say sir". Later that day I asked to speak with the 1SG but our schedules didn't mesh so I gave the orders and the medal to my PSG and asked him to return them. We had been talking about it for a couple weeks.

I didn't make an ass of myself in front of the lower enlisted, didn't humiliate my CoC or NCO support channel and kept the "insulting" award off of my records.

My advice is tell your CoC you don't want an award, don't get "forced" to write your own, and be professional with whatever action(s) you take.

Response by MSG Michael McEleney made Dec 29 at 2016 8:49 PM

MSG Michael McEleney — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 20:49:40 -0500

Take the award. There are so many people who are never recognized, that getting one seems to the exception to the rule.

Response by SGT Aaron Hall made Dec 29 at 2016 9:38 PM

SGT Aaron Hall — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 21:38:08 -0500

You are probably like me. I enlisted because the war on terror was my generations calling. I joined because I did not to be a grandfather telling my grandchildren that I was to much of a B*tch to fight my generations war. I joined becauss it was the American thing to do. I know what I did while in. My family is proud, my wife is proud, and i am proud. Shred my ETS award, it is just a piece of paper.

Response by SFC Edward Hill made Dec 29 at 2016 9:39 PM

SFC Edward Hill — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 21:39:29 -0500

I tried to refuse an award once because my supervisor submitted it out of obligation rather than for my accomplishments. In fact, the actual award was supposed to be an MSM and the unnamed individual tried first tried to take credit for the work and then took the easy way out by copying someone else's accomplishments on the recommendation for my award. Of course, the award was poorly written and downgraded to an ARCOM and pushed through the system to meet my Departure deadline. By the truck me I saw the award, it was ready for presentation and was a complete lie. I was ticked and requested to receive the award privately because I planned to turn it in board of record appeals to have it stricken from my record. First off, reward me appropriately for my work. Secondly, if it is going to be downgraded, at least let it be legitimate. The whole situation should disrespect, laziness, poor leadership, and a lack of concern for troops. I thought about throwing it away, but I was too much of a professional to do such a thing.

Response by SPC James Moya made Dec 29 at 2016 10:48 PM

SPC James Moya — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 22:48:42 -0500

The best way is to tell them directly. I have refused awards because in certain situations I felt that I was getting an award for doing the job and not for anything exceptional, and this is a radical trend in the Army, for rewarding mediocrity. If you tell your first line that under no circumstances will you accept an award or citation, they have to honor that request. Its your OMPF, not theirs.

Response by SSgt Thomas Crisp made Dec 30 at 2016 12:00 AM

SSgt Thomas Crisp — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 00:00:44 -0500

Sounds as though you fell your not part of the group, must be something wrong? not accepting the award would be a smack in the face of your commander and your unit, if I was your commander I would insure your departure out of my unit ASAP. Advise you to reconsider your thoughts on this, unless its your way of saying your not happy in your job, position,, and rank. Advice from a retired vet.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2016 12:29 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 00:29:36 -0500

I've heard this argument from more than one of my Soldiers and my answer to them was that they were getting one regardless of how they feel about it. First off, if you contributed in any way to your unit accomplishing their mission it should be recognized, for you, as well as soldiers who are lower ranking than you it is important that they see hard work being recognized. Second, it is important for your children or children's children who may want to know a little about you when you are gone. You also may not think it is important to you now but you may look back on your service in the future and wish you had it.

Response by MAJ Jr C made Dec 30 at 2016 12:51 AM

MAJ Jr C — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 00:51:43 -0500

Don't be a c@@@; Nothing good will come of it. Take the award and move out smartly. ETS/PCS awards means whatever good or bad situation you were in, is now in the past. Not having an award, or having a BS award would prompt a question "who did you piss off and how?" from anybody that reviewed your service record.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2016 2:35 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 02:35:34 -0500

After 6 years with a unit where I never received an award, I PCS'd and now I was put in for an MSM. I would rather of had s couple of timely AAMs than an MSM after I left.

Response by CPL Sterling Kemp made Dec 30 at 2016 2:53 AM

CPL Sterling Kemp — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 02:53:33 -0500

Who gives a F?!?!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2016 3:14 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 03:14:39 -0500

Did it. Got moved into training room while recovering from surgery. Had 2 NCO"S over me (SPC at time) neither stuck around after first formation. Unit deployed, I did all the work. They got ARCOM`s. Since I was lower enlisted I got an AAM. tossed it in trash

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2016 6:30 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 06:30:06 -0500

So I just went through this situation I worked in the SPO where officers and NCOs were always at odds . The officers treated us NCOS like crap everyone was in it for themselves and the atmosphere was very immature and unprofessional. I still , being the NCO that I was , did the best I could do to maintain and be professional and excel in my career. When it came time for my award to come I told my MAJ that I in fact did not want an award nor a going away get together bc I was so bitter. What he said to me changed my thoughts entirely . He told me that my award is for me and not for them! If you put in your hard work did the best you can and exceeding the standards in your own mind you EARNED THAT AWARD ITS YOURS! An award seems to be the typical thing to get just because u are pcsing and etsing but THATS NOT TRUE it's to show you how amazing you are and this is what you have to show for it! It's not about them! Another thing is what are you instilling in your Troops? Lead from the front ... can u not accept and award and then write awards for your troops they are watching you and what u do ! A Soldier may look at the fact that you do not want an award and when it comes for you to write there's that they earned may offer you up the same request! Now if your a good leader you would persuade them otherwise like your leadership is doing for you. One last thing what does your future look like as far as the Army goes bc it's about building your career portfolio. What future leadership positions are you trying to fulfill? What future special assignments and duties are you wanting to attain? This is bigger then your personal opinion and thoughts on the unit and others ! This is for you and about you! So what u have to write your award that gives you an opportunity to write out exactly what you know you've done and accomplished! The system is not perfect by far are we supposed to write them ourselves? No ! But I'd rather write my own then have someone that hasn't paid attention to my career and what I've accomplished push something through that doesn't describe me at all! I hope the message came across clear and has helped you! Drive on Backbone! HOOAH

I LATER SAW THAT U WERE ETSING HOWEVER IVE HEARD THIS QUESTION TOO MANY TIMES AND I PRAY IT ASSISTS OTHERS . Good luck on the civilian side.

Response by LCpl Jeff Moore made Dec 30 at 2016 8:25 AM

LCpl Jeff Moore — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 08:25:45 -0500

So are you getting this award cause your getting out, or end of time with the unit.

I heard jokes how the army goves awards out for anything, but also seen it in the marines, administration pog goes a week without making a mistake and get an award, gunt leads a fire team with no issue and nothing. And the worst was an airforce crew chief getting a bronze star for keeping his a10 running with no issues, he felt ashamed of earning it cause he just got luckly with the plane.

Seems there been an award inflation system in the military, with CO and leaders thinking they must give awards out to improve moral and make their troops more likey to be promoted.

That said i say have a chat with your platoon sgt or 1sgt and ask about the award and why they think you should receive one, and how you feel about it.

Response by CAPT Hiram Patterson made Dec 30 at 2016 11:14 AM

CAPT Hiram Patterson — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 11:14:06 -0500

Remember the Patton movie speach when he said something about not having to tell your kids about shoveling s*t in Louisiana when asked about what you did in the war? Accept the award with grace and thanks. You can always tell the troops that the award doesn't represent what I have done but what all of us have done.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2016 12:16 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 12:16:42 -0500

I didn't want my award.. Told them not even to bother, because it felt like BS... Never bothered giving me one for all the hard work I did throughout my time in, but finally made one because it had to be done. I left July 6, 2016, still haven't received it. Collecting dust somewhere. Also just showed how people don't really care. They had 3 weeks, got kicked back after the training room had it for a week because of a typo, they got it back that same day and was in the training room when I signed out. Even my PSG tried getting it to me after I left for a couple months, but just like everything that place stood for, you aren't anything important to people. once you're gone, good riddance to you. I did get one award during my 3 years there, which was total BS because how many they gave out, just because. There was a 2 week ftx at the Motorpool and the nco's were told write an award for every soldier. About 30 people got an award. One female, got to the unit the second week, was thrown on to fix stuff, broke stuff, and still got a AAM I believe, and only being at her unit for one week. They're handed out like lollipops after a doctors appointment, becoming VERY meaningless.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2016 12:54 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 12:54:56 -0500

Write your own properly formatted memorandum and sign it. They'll either accept it or your getting an award. Pretty simple actually. ✊

Response by SFC Rick Forlines made Dec 30 at 2016 2:44 PM

SFC Rick Forlines — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 14:44:39 -0500

My career philosophy on awards is that there are virtual warehouses bursting at the seams due to too many non awarded medals.

Response by Lt Col David Nadeau made Dec 30 at 2016 3:00 PM

Lt Col David Nadeau — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 15:00:29 -0500

This is one of my biggest frustrations I had before I retired...having leadership come to someone and ask them to write their own decoration package--HUGE FAIL! You should never be put in that position. Also I would offer your not wasting anyone's time, it's their job to take care of you. As far as whether your next employer will even care, it depends on whether they were in the military or not. If they were, it may come up in discussion and not having one sends a message. Last, some day, far down the road, your children or grandchildren may dig through your files after your gone and they will be able to have a sense of pride when they read the citation. I say that because my father was a 36-year veteran and never discussed any of his service dealings. After he passed I wrote to St. Louis and got his 201 files. It meant a lot to see the other side of the man who shaped most of my life. Don't let any bitterness linger after you leave, it's wasted energy--for what it's worth, thank you for your service!

Response by SGT Frank Leonardo made Dec 30 at 2016 3:56 PM

SGT Frank Leonardo — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 15:56:42 -0500

I always found that it was nice to send a troop off to the next assignment or ETS with something to say hey thanks for being part of our unit enjoy your travels. I looked at mine from S Korea and remembered the times I had over there with my squad that was detached from our main company. Heck we gave our camp back to S Korea a few years after I left Camp Howze. I did not get a going away plaque etc when I ETS from my unit in Fort Riley just a formation to say goodbye. Was there 5 years and a formation so I did what I thought was proper held all 199 up for 15 mins flapping my gums then left the Army.

Response by SGT David Thompson made Dec 30 at 2016 4:44 PM

SGT David Thompson — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 16:44:51 -0500

From someone who never received one, through no fault of their own; accept it and be gracious. What happens to it when you leave the room is entirely up to you.

Response by CPO Raymond Kurtz made Dec 30 at 2016 5:03 PM

CPO Raymond Kurtz — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 17:03:34 -0500

Please enlighten those of us that do not know what ETS means. That being said I looked up the loose definition of it. I received my first end of tour award 20 years into my career. After that, and having advanced to Chief Petty Officer, I received them after every tour.

Response by MSgt Daniel Armstrong made Dec 30 at 2016 5:15 PM

MSgt Daniel Armstrong — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 17:15:07 -0500

Most units I was in, the best way to not get an award, was to not write it. Yup, most units I was in you had to write your own awards and your own performance reports. Lazy bastards.

Response by MSgt Ben Heath made Dec 30 at 2016 5:32 PM

MSgt Ben Heath — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 17:32:00 -0500

If your not making it a career then just say you don't want to do it. But if you plan to stay in the army then you were only fucking yourself in the long run if you don't take it.

Response by SSG Keith Phillips made Dec 30 at 2016 5:35 PM

SSG Keith Phillips — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 17:35:35 -0500

When I was in we were given award for our service at the duty station we were at it was given for our performance while serving the unit. Is this the same thing? If it is I don't understand the problem. If it's an award for simply separating then it is a bullshit award and shouldn't even be awarded. Participation trophies are given to losers not Professional Soldiers.

Response by SGM Major Stroupe made Dec 30 at 2016 6:21 PM

SGM Major Stroupe — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 18:21:38 -0500

Awards do not have to be accepted. Simply state to your chain of command that you decline award recognition.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2016 6:22 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 18:22:51 -0500

I just told.my 1SG that after 20 faithful years, and the tings I have done for the Army and my unit I will not accept an AAM for a retirement award. Thank you, but I don't want to look like a disgrace in front of my Soldiers.

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made Dec 30 at 2016 6:26 PM

SFC Christopher Taggart — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 18:26:09 -0500

I say, be gracious, take the award. You want to be remembered as a "team-player" and not someone who was ungrateful. You want to leave with dignity and not someone "who, we couldn't wait for him to leave!" Who knows, maybe those soldiers that you supervise have "short-timer" calendars...not theirs, BUT yours!

Response by Cpl Thomas Woods made Dec 30 at 2016 7:13 PM

Cpl Thomas Woods — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 19:13:54 -0500

ETS award??? WTF, over....I was retired from the Corps in1992..For Corporals there was no such thing. Like most Marines of my generation I'd be like "A medal??? What the fuck for. I did my fucking job, nothing else". I would accept it so as not to set a bad example to junior personnel. Bad career move not to...Marines know the story of Smedley Butler sending his 2nd MOH to the Secretary of War in the mail. He made MajGen, but had ENSURED that he would never be Commandant. He is smart, who learns from his mistakes; He is wise, who learns from the mistakes of others..That, and I recall the words of Jagger and Richards-You can't always get what you want..(especially in our profession!)....My $.02

Response by 1SG Henry McDonald made Dec 30 at 2016 7:24 PM

1SG Henry McDonald — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 19:24:29 -0500

The Eta awards that are given are the units expression of the units appreciation. These awards are also to show the other soldiers that the unit will show their soldiers appreciation for loyal and dedicated service. Not accepting ets awards are an insult to the unit and the unit command staff including the ranking NCOs. I consider this as disrespectful behavior. I agree with the statement that the NCO that tosses the ets award in the garbage on his way out the door makes himself look like a smacked ass correct. If YOU are in that situation gracefully and respectfully accept the award. Take the award home. If you want to throw it away there FINE. Piss on it for all I care but accept it and take it with you. Hooah.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2016 7:51 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 19:51:51 -0500

I can understand. My favorite was I couldn't put my paperwork in for retirement without one. So of course I has to write it myself and put the new guys name on it. The only thing that made me mad is he let it sit on his desk for over a month. It wasn't like he even changed a word, just made everyone think my packet was lost . Actually I am irritated now that I think about it. Seriously you make a soldier write their own award so they can get their orders and I didn't even want the stinking thing I don't care. It's not going to help me when I get out. I haven't been around these people for over a year most of them think that I have already retired. Grrrrrrrrrrr Grrrrrrrrrrr grrrrr. Ok I'm over it. Retirement isn't soon enough lol.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2016 8:07 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 20:07:09 -0500

My ETS award 1.) had my MOS listed incorrectly and 2.) had multiple spelling errors. I won't lie, I was disheartened and disappointed that I spent 6 years and a deployment with a unit that did nothing more than copy / paste and say see ya later. I'd rather receive nothing at all than something half assed.

Response by MSgt Randel West made Dec 30 at 2016 8:45 PM

MSgt Randel West — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 20:45:26 -0500

Me and another SNCO where given aaccommodation medal and a dumb ass Lt only read the citation for a SSgt. When the CC started to pin on the medals i was about to sit down , I took the medal and I was pissed. Later when i got my MSM all that didn't matter. Awards aren't just for the individual but also recognizes the family made. This guy was just a pissed of kid showing his ass

Response by SPC Robby Robinson made Dec 30 at 2016 9:24 PM

SPC Robby Robinson — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 21:24:25 -0500

Why don't you can the mystery and respond to those asking for more
information?

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2016 11:08 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 23:08:38 -0500

I ETS'd in July of this year... no adverse action EVER, NCOIC of two division level details in Hawaii, one of which lasted over 8 months and saved the Army millions.

Still no award.

Just relating.

Response by SGT Joseph Miller made Dec 31 at 2016 12:25 AM

SGT Joseph Miller — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 00:25:46 -0500

You know what pisses me off about this is how childish you are and your an NCO too. That award may have your name on it but it's not just for you its for your soldies who helped you earn it and the leaders who helped you become an NCO to earn it and you just spit right in their faces and you call yourself an NCO. my BC was away when I retired and he fought to get me an MSM personally I could care less about it and i wasn't happy shaving what beard I had grown over my 4 months of retirement to get into a uniform to go back to receive this award but I'm a NCO and a Soldier and i respect my prior chain of command for what they did for me and I showed it by shaving getting into a uniform and acting like a NCO. Suck it up buttercup and quit thinking of yourself you POS!!

Response by Sgt Dee Watts made Dec 31 at 2016 5:31 AM

Sgt Dee Watts — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 05:31:46 -0500

Some people like recognition, some don't. For some, an award of any kind boosts their morale and therefore their attitude and performance. If you refuse it, it sends a negative message to
Everyone around you, especially to the soldiers beneath you whom you seem to care about. It would be cheapening any awards or recognition they may get in the future.
My advice would be to accept the award and smile as you do. Put on the good, morale building show for those under you. Throw it away when you get home if you want to, but send a good message to the troops at work.

Response by CSM Christopher St. Cyr made Dec 31 at 2016 8:44 AM

CSM Christopher St. Cyr — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 08:44:59 -0500

SGT, Sounds like you edited your post since you first asked. Many enlisted Soldiers have poor writing skills. That is one of the contributing causes of denied awards. Writing your ETS award allows someone else to work on their writing skills which may improve someone's NCOER down the road and help them receive a promotion they deserve.

Response by SSG Timothy Weber made Dec 31 at 2016 9:47 AM

SSG Timothy Weber — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 09:47:46 -0500

Be thankful that they even want to give you an award. When I retired in 2005, I didn't get a thing, a thank you, see ya later, or a kiss my a$$, when I put alot of my own personal time into doing my job.

Response by SPC Dalton Moore made Dec 31 at 2016 10:00 AM

SPC Dalton Moore — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 10:00:11 -0500

My ETS award is the only reminder of my Army life I see every day. It reminds me of the great family my Army buddies were to me. It reminds of the ongoing struggle my brothers and sisters in arms make every day. It reminds me that I belonged to the most elite club in the world. My ETS award says freedom. My ETS awards reminds me that I live in the greatest country ever The United States of America.

Response by SPC Joshua Davis made Dec 31 at 2016 10:16 AM

SPC Joshua Davis — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 10:16:05 -0500

Fill out a prickE8 form and give it to your 1SG and ask him not to do the award. You will need to also fill out the Id10T form and submit that to your PL. After that let the E4 mafia know so they can take care of it.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2016 11:04 AM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 11:04:48 -0500

Send them a Memo for Record and explain your position. In my case, when I was out processing there was mention of giving me an ‘Honorary’ promotion to SMSgt. I pointed out that I AM a SMSgt, not a MSgt and an ‘Honorary’ promotion to ‘honor’ me for what I earned is NOT an honor.

Response by SPC Bret Bean made Dec 31 at 2016 12:30 PM

SPC Bret Bean — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 12:30:59 -0500

I didn't get an ETS award, but me and a few others were called to the front of the formation and my 1SG shook my hand and told me that I would be missed. And thanked me for not being a d-bag while in his company. I couldn't have respected that man more than I did at that moment.

Response by CMSgt Dennis Heath made Dec 31 at 2016 1:07 PM

CMSgt Dennis Heath — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 13:07:28 -0500

In the end, an ETS award recognizes the culmination of your time given to the Service and your nation. Yes, the citation captures what was done during the specified time period, but is motivated by the totality of your contribution. It is military tradition, and refusal is a slap in the face to all those who preceded you and to those who follow.

Response by LTC Russ Smith made Dec 31 at 2016 2:03 PM

LTC Russ Smith — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 14:03:00 -0500

A lot of guys quietly hate their military experience but go thru their enlistment doing their job well anyway. This strikes me as a case where a soldier send to telling his chain of command "You treated me like a piece of $&!+ for for years, treated the people around me the same way, and now you want me to smile, shake your hand, and pretend it's all been great. No thank you. Just let me go in peace.

Response by LTC Russ Smith made Dec 31 at 2016 2:04 PM

LTC Russ Smith — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 14:04:36 -0500

A lot of guys quietly hate their military experience usually due to abusive chains of command but go thru their enlistment doing their job well anyway. This strikes me as a case where a soldier seems to be telling his chain of command "You treated me like a piece of $&!+ for four years, treated the people around me the same way, and now you want me to smile, shake your hand, and pretend it's all been great. No thank you. Just let me go in peace.

Response by SFC Erich Orrick made Dec 31 at 2016 3:25 PM

SFC Erich Orrick — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 15:25:10 -0500

Go in the future 10 years and you'll look back and remember your friends and good times when you get that reward and see the times without a bad taste. Take it. Be the big man and later you'll be happy you did. Trust
Me you will

Response by SGT Gary Starr made Dec 31 at 2016 3:25 PM

SGT Gary Starr — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 15:25:57 -0500

I personally turned down an ETS medal because it was based on rank and not achievement. I had earned higher medals representing much unit over 3 years. Then when ready to ETS CW2 got a higher medal and was only in the unit 6 months

Response by MAJ Victor Alarcon made Dec 31 at 2016 4:33 PM

MAJ Victor Alarcon — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 16:33:57 -0500

Times changes all, accept the award and remember that it is part of your legacy. You decide the future by your own actions in the present.

Response by CPT Kyung Keum made Dec 31 at 2016 5:53 PM

CPT Kyung Keum — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 17:53:05 -0500

Rarely do I post here, but this one is personal for me. Like many junior officers at the time, I got my you've been through deployment Bronze Star. As a new Captain, my S3 major got fired and sent to an individual augmentee position because the BN CO did not want him around. I got to do all his work and mine.

After coming home and playing rear detachment CDR, we had a complete change of senior leadership. Because I was one of the few people from deployment left, I conducted all of the refit. The new BN XO and S3 did not want to do their jobs. After scrounging 4 M777 howitzers form a national guard unit and fighting with Corps S4, the new S3 asked me if 3 bullets were enough for an ARCOM and if I could write them. This guy was the Rear D CD-R for his previous unit and got an MSM for that, but wanted me to write my own award.

I guess the moral of the story is screw them. The ETS award isn't going to feed you and you don't owe them anything to receive it. My friends threw me a nice party and I appreciate that more than another worthless award. Accept what you like and don't feel obligated to make them feel good about themselves.

Response by SFC Jeffery Zuker made Dec 31 at 2016 6:50 PM

SFC Jeffery Zuker — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 18:50:05 -0500

I can tell you that personally i would tell them to shove it where the sun dont shine.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2016 7:21 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 19:21:48 -0500

Go to and see your 1SG and respectfully request no award supported by a no award memo stating you do not want a award that is the correct way to do it. If you really feel that strong about it. I will tell you don't be the a$& hole who throws it in the trash make sure when you do get it take your soldiers off to the side and let them know their work and dedication means more to you than a medal but accept it with grace after you leave do what you want with it.

Response by SPC Patrick Chandler made Dec 31 at 2016 8:40 PM

SPC Patrick Chandler — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 20:40:28 -0500

Not for nothing, but taking the award and moving on seems like the more adult thing to do. Not accepting an ETS award isn't going to spark some miraculous change in the service, and the statement your trying to make will more than likely just be forgotten in a few weeks. Second, accepting it shows your soldiers that even when things don't go the way you want them to, you still do your duty. Part of that ETS is recognition for your qualities as a leader, it is therefore logically recognition for the work performed by the soldiers under you, since every leader is nothing without the people under them.

Speaking strictly as an adult, I'd say just take the award and move on.

Response by PO1 Christopher Reese made Dec 31 at 2016 8:42 PM

PO1 Christopher Reese — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 20:42:26 -0500

What I did with one of EOT awards is I wrote a special request and requested that my people that worked for me get an award for it always is them who either make or break you. Long story short they each got their award and I got mine. I however was more humbled when they got theirs. Honored to get mine though I wasn't expecting it.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2016 8:45 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 20:45:33 -0500

I had a bad taste after deployment. I sent my awards home in the mail without even really looking at them. 11 years later, I cherish them. This is part of your life and career, just take the award :-). The issues will be nothing but memories.

Response by SgtMaj Emmett Salas made Dec 31 at 2016 9:27 PM

SgtMaj Emmett Salas — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 21:27:23 -0500

Tell it straight up. I did during Desert Storm I was informed that I was to be written up for Meritorious Medal for being out there and I passed the word up to the C.O. that I was doing my job and no award is called for.

Response by PO3 Dani Pool made Dec 31 at 2016 10:04 PM

PO3 Dani Pool — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 22:04:04 -0500

Accept the award no matter. You may not like it, just should've sucked it up. Don't act a fool. You showed your ass and will probably never receive a regonition again. If you don't like what you do, then leave. There are others who deserve the praise more than you. Glad I didn't serve with you. Otherwise, a blanket party might be necessary you ungrateful ass.

Response by PO2 Jason Boettger made Dec 31 at 2016 11:04 PM

PO2 Jason Boettger — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 23:04:11 -0500

I received a NAM after my second cruise just before I was due to get out. While I was told it was for my contribution as the surface supervisor. However; it was known that people would receive this reward as an incentive to stay in the Navy. I felt that this practice devalues the medal. Whether I earned it or not, any possible value that it would have brought had little meaning to me due to the practice.

Sadly, today I regret getting out. 19 years after my ETS, I wish I had remained in the Navy. While I realize that things happens for a reason, I still regret that decision.

Response by SPC Saundra Teater made Jan 1 at 2017 7:59 AM

SPC Saundra Teater — Sun, 01 Jan 2017 07:59:21 -0500

When I was the awards clerk in my PAC, we had this big awards ceremony and I remembermber how one reward had three people absolutely going crazy. My PAC sergeant got into a fight about the placement of a comma with our Major. And to add insult to everything, the guy who the award was for was trying to get it cancelled. Me and this guy were trying to end this with a file this under later. But my seargent and Major were still arguing over the comma. We had the award ceremony scheduled at 7 am, as like a treat and not do pt. And I'm not even joking about it being over a comma. One idiot said it went before that word, the other one said after. To make sure they win, they marked up the actual certificate. It was after 4 am that me and this other soldier just had it. I typed up both ways, one had it before, one had it after. We lied to my seargent and said the major wants us asap. Once everyone was there, we had a mini mutiny. First I put both certificates in front and told them to decide which one gets in the pile. But before we do that, can someone please ask this private why he doesn't want it. Then I turned left, went back to office and waited for mps to show up because I knew there was no way I was going to get away with what I did. Than, a miracle shows up. In the form of our Seargent Major. He asked why I was up early. And because by this time I had lost all filters every soldier has, I told him. May the lord bless him, he sent me to bed and gave me that day off. I never asked what happened. When they tried to tell me, I said I didn't want to know. After almost thirty years, I wish I knew.

Response by SGT Jon Creager made Jan 1 at 2017 10:00 AM

SGT Jon Creager — Sun, 01 Jan 2017 10:00:45 -0500

The best way to handle this is take the award but ask to speak.
Then tell the whole company that it is an award for your men doing a super jobs and pump upi how the men make make you the leader, how the men working their asses off for you made it....
Without good men under you, you can never be a leader.

Response by SGT Christina Barron made Jan 1 at 2017 12:22 PM

SGT Christina Barron — Sun, 01 Jan 2017 12:22:14 -0500

I didn't want the automatic end of tour award after my last deployment. I simply didn't go to the formation at all, and they rescinded it.

Response by SGT Christina Barron made Jan 1 at 2017 12:59 PM

SGT Christina Barron — Sun, 01 Jan 2017 12:59:53 -0500

I can't find my first comment, so I'll post again. My second deployment, I was singled out and treated like something you scrape off the bottom of your boot. When it came time for the mandatory end of tour awards, mine was downgraded to below the minimum they were allowed to put in for. To me, that's not an award. That's a slap in the face. What it says is that I was a POS to them, but they were required to put me in for an award. I didn't then--and still don't--want a slap in the face. I refused to go to the award ceremony at all. They rescinded the award and shredded all the paperwork for it. Which is exactly what I wanted.

Response by TSgt Johnnie Keller made Jan 1 at 2017 3:44 PM

TSgt Johnnie Keller — Sun, 01 Jan 2017 15:44:12 -0500

I did this once, I told my PSG that I wasn't interested, he took me to the 1SG and told me to tell the him why I wasn't interested. I with respect explained it to the 1SG and PSG in detail and that was that. They didn't get pissed off at me or anything. The 1SG told me that he would square it away with the CO and let me PCS. I did get on heck of a good NCOER and a sincere handshake from the PSG and 1SG. I would say try that method, if it doesn't work, just suck it up and drive on. "First In Last Out"

I spent a total of 21 years on active duty, 11 1/2 with the Army and 9 with the Air Force. I got more awards and decorations from the Army than I ever got from the Air Farce. When I saw folks getting awards in the Air Farce (who by no means deserved that award) I just watched on and was glad that I saw people (when I was in the Army) getting awards who deserved those awards. Just saying . . . .

Response by CWO4 Tim Hecht made Jan 1 at 2017 3:49 PM

CWO4 Tim Hecht — Sun, 01 Jan 2017 15:49:50 -0500

wow I know we used to say in the Navy and Coast Guard that a bitching sailor is a happy sailor...

Since when did soldiers get the luxury of telling their command what to do? Regarding an end of tour award?

I have two thoughts on this issue; first if you're a stellar performer throughout your tour of duty your command probably should had rewarded your performance at the time it happened. The other thought is: "Suck it up buttercup." I'd rather have an end of tour award then no award at all. Performance Recognition should almost be on a daily basis.

One thing I used to suggest to the people who worked for me was for them to keep a record of their performance to show to me at evaluation time. Trouble is not my memory but its we tend to remember the negative things our people do - not the positive....

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2017 5:12 PM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Jan 2017 17:12:34 -0500

Funny thing is that sometimes we spent all this time n our soldiers ends up leaving without those awards nor can anyone explain where it went even when it is summited way ahead of time.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2017 8:57 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Jan 2017 20:57:49 -0500

Well, I somewhat understand why you don't want the award. I am moving fast toward my retirement and I have thought about awards. It is standard practice (my perception) that a MSG receives a MSM at the unit I currently work with for their retirement award. The problem is, I have 3 x MSM from PCS moves from units I have worked with. Personally, the math doesn't make sense to me when we talk PCS vs Retirement while receiving the same award. Maybe I will post something when I get closer so I can get blasted, badgered, or bombarded for a bit. Thanks for your service!

Response by SPC Jose Herrera made Jan 1 at 2017 9:28 PM

SPC Jose Herrera — Sun, 01 Jan 2017 21:28:56 -0500

My unit required you to get one as part of your clearing process. But we were allowed to request to waive the award if you didn't want it, to speed up the clearing.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2017 10:20 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Jan 2017 22:20:46 -0500

Award packages are written upon request to meet a quota of writing awards. Even though your bosses are trying their best to pick the person that deserves it...more often than not the wrong person gets it. If you put your name on 90% of the work that gets done in the unit...then you are 90% at risk to get a quality assurance fail...which disqualify's you from any award...while in the background the person that actually gets recognition is the piece of shit that gets put in an easy support or back shop job that requires no brains to do and then in turn has a lower chance of qa failure and higher chance of flying under the radar. I feel that the person that got the award was someone that did work his tail off but is smart enough to know that its a bullshit "scooby snack" and he feels offended after recieving the award because he knows the retards are the ones that get awards and afterall he was just doing his job to the best of his ability and wandering/wishing that everyone else had the same work initiative that he does....leave him alone and let him get back to to work....he doesn't need some nonner to tell him he did good because he gets satisfaction and pride from his efficient quality work.....in short...."uh go fuck yourself"

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2017 11:34 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 01 Jan 2017 23:34:00 -0500

After just three months in the Army at AIT my PSG handed out National Defense ribbons for service during Desert Storm. This was in 96, well after the end of that operation. Many of us expressed dismay at receiving this. He simply said take it, because there will be many times in your career when you will earn much more recognition than you get. In my 20 years I've seen many get awards they didn't deserve and I've seen many more not get awards they do deserve, in my opinion. I always strived to be fair and impartial, as the creed says. Regardless of the outcome my Soldiers always knew where they stood with me. I retired with a very modest set of ribbons, but I am very proud of my service nonetheless. At any rate, take the award and be proud of your service.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2017 1:46 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 01:46:04 -0500

I have had to write my own awards and NCOERs and though I wasn't wild about it, I did it to get it over with. It is what it is.

Response by SSG Steven Mangus made Jan 2 at 2017 10:29 AM

SSG Steven Mangus — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 10:29:16 -0500

During my time in the military awards were earned and few were given out in the early years, yet as time progressed and the GWOT told on a life of its own; awArda were given out for attending and everybody got one. To add insult to injury the type of award received was based on pay grade. So I began asking for coins in lieu of awards, which I feel have a greater meaning than a ribbon that was given as part of a politically correct mentality. Of all the awards outside of the ones that are given for time, deployments, etc. I feel that I earned only 2 for going above and beyond.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2017 2:52 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 14:52:27 -0500

I can understand the bad taste part as I've seen service members who deserved a specific award get told by company comman and Battalion commands they aren't goin. To receive it because they weren't a specific rank. But for real. Take the award. It helps sum up your total service. I've seen it all to often where people get out and then regret not having a ETS award.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2017 3:45 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 15:45:32 -0500

I don't remember whether I answered this before, and I'm not interested in scrolling through 222 responses in order to check, but what's wrong with just getting the award, keeping your mouth shut, then sticking it in a drawer somewhere and forgetting about it?

Response by MSgt Carl Stokes made Jan 2 at 2017 5:54 PM

MSgt Carl Stokes — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 17:54:32 -0500

The award is not yours alone, it reflects the achievements your troops have accomplished as well. If you had a group of turd warriors, you more than likely would not receive any positive recognition. Be the true soldier that stands tall no matter what has been dealt to them.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2017 6:06 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 18:06:26 -0500

You'll spend more time and effort trying to avoid taking the award than you would by just accepting it. I never understood why people try to dodge recognition when the action of trying to dodge it only draws attention and wastes more effort from the 20 people in your chain of command who think they can convince you otherwise and will waste an hour of your time trying.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2017 6:08 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 18:08:47 -0500

I hate how people think that awards and promotions are for the units and families. They are not! They are my achievements and mine alone. That's why I choose to never have formations for myself. Also I don't give a shit about formations!

Response by Cpl Daniel Lee made Jan 2 at 2017 7:46 PM

Cpl Daniel Lee — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 19:46:21 -0500

I just bowed out with as much pride, dignity and grace as possible... save the trashing for when you're out of sight, out of mind.

Response by SFC Fred Youngs made Jan 2 at 2017 7:54 PM

SFC Fred Youngs — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 19:54:32 -0500

I did 12 Years Active Duty got an ARCOM mailed to me. I then joined the Mi. ARNG served 11 Years got my 20 Year Letter I was the NCOIC of the Bn. Recovery Section. I received nothing when I left the Unit. I did not want it my Soldiers gave me a Plaque it hangs on the wall.

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2017 9:47 PM

CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 21:47:54 -0500

Glad to hear it's not just the AF that wastes so kuch time kicking those things back 100 times for corrections. Lol

Response by SCPO Randy Breidel made Jan 3 at 2017 12:17 AM

SCPO Randy Breidel — Tue, 03 Jan 2017 00:17:59 -0500

I realize that it may also be a Christian thing like it was for me not wanting to get credit for doing good for others in the command I really did not want the command to go through the trouble, but I later realized that the ceremony was as much about them saying good bye and thank you as it was me thanking all of them, ensure your troops are there when you get it and make sure they know how much that award is one that they all contributed towards and that the memories will always be with you, God speed

Response by MSgt John Christopherson made Jan 3 at 2017 1:20 AM

MSgt John Christopherson — Tue, 03 Jan 2017 01:20:40 -0500

Okay, must be an army thing but wtf is an ETS award back in the corps that meant estimated time of separation or something like that. Doesnt seem like something to get an award for.

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made Jan 4 at 2017 12:30 AM

SSG Mark Franzen — Wed, 04 Jan 2017 00:30:20 -0500

Just let them do what they are going to do it. You aren't going stop them no matter what.
SSG MARK FRANZEN
US ARMY VET

Response by SSG John Minke made Jan 4 at 2017 8:07 PM

SSG John Minke — Wed, 04 Jan 2017 20:07:49 -0500

Accept it and ETS with pride.

Response by SGT William Ziegler made Jan 5 at 2017 12:30 AM

SGT William Ziegler — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 00:30:03 -0500

Bathrooms always need toilet paper.....NSDQ

Response by SPC James Van Orman made Jan 5 at 2017 3:16 AM

SPC James Van Orman — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 03:16:16 -0500

I think it is safe to say we have all had good and bad leaders during our time of service. Awards have been given out for the right reasons, and the wrong reasons. But what we all have to agree on is that their is a thing called respect. One thing I had a SFC tell me when I was a private is that you do not have to respect me as a person, but you will respect my rank. I thought about that long, and hard. I would think that as a leader it would mean more to you to have your soldiers respect you as a person then the rank you wear. Job #1 as a Non-Commissioned Officer is accomplishment of my mission, and then the well fare of my soldiers. I believe that is backward because without your soldiers you can not accomplish your mission. Now you are probably asking what does this have to do with receiving an award? I went from E-1 to E-6, and back down to E-4. A lot of my trouble came from not changing with the times. I did not go along, so I did not get along. From E-1 to E-4 your career is defined by what you do. Once you are a leader of soldiers, your career is defined by what your soldiers do. If you are a good leader your soldiers will follow you through the gates of hell, and give their lives for you. If you are a POS leader your soldiers will leave you flapping in the wind. You want your soldiers to see that even though you have issues with the CoC, you still have military bearing. Until you are officially signed out you are still a soldier. I did not need ribbons, medals, awards, certificates, or any recognition for my service. If I deployed and all of my soldiers made it home alive, and not wounded, then that was my award. Because as a leader my soldiers were the most important thing to me. I was responsible for them. Anything the unit gave me, whether earned or not I respectfully accepted and moved on. I made sure that when I was given the floor that I thanked those that made it possible for me to receive this award, that would be those supporting you (your family, and your soldiers). Do not forget that without your subordinates that you are not a leader your are just a soldier.

Response by SPC Alan Gibson made Jan 5 at 2017 10:05 AM

SPC Alan Gibson — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 10:05:30 -0500

Take the award and move on. Didn't get an ETS award when I was getting out in the early 80's

Response by MSgt Billy Kerr made Jan 5 at 2017 10:38 AM

MSgt Billy Kerr — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 10:38:33 -0500

I think that throwing he award in a waste basket is a bit drastic, but I do believe a service member should have the right to refuse an award or medal if he or she sees fit to do so.

Response by SFC Jose V Ortiz made Jan 5 at 2017 11:59 AM

SFC Jose V Ortiz — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 11:59:21 -0500

Just take the award turn around and carry on with your life.

Response by SSG Derek Gray made Jan 5 at 2017 12:50 PM

SSG Derek Gray — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 12:50:55 -0500

When I got out I declined my ETS award. I walked in and talked to my CO and 1SG and explained I hated getting awards and did not want one. They knew from previous times I was put in for awards and was pissed and respected my wishes. I am a firm believer in just being upfront, respectful and honest. Always worked in my 10 years in.

Response by SPC Chris Newland made Jan 5 at 2017 1:08 PM

SPC Chris Newland — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 13:08:19 -0500

being honored wearing the bluecord is the only thing i cared about recieving.. im proud of it, i dont want medals, there not necessary. i did my job, plain and simple, im just a simple soldier that followed orders that served in the greatest military on earth.

Response by COL David Turk made Jan 5 at 2017 1:21 PM

COL David Turk — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 13:21:59 -0500

It's not up to you.

Response by SPC Aaron Cooper made Jan 5 at 2017 5:10 PM

SPC Aaron Cooper — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 17:10:38 -0500

When I got out I told my 1SG directly I don't want some ETS award. It wouldn't help me get a career in the civilian world. He argued with me for a while saying it's important to get one. I eventually said fine just to get it over with but when it came time for my last day, it was still in S-1. Ended up not getting one and just shaking hands with the leadership. Lol

Response by SPC Jeff Dougie made Jan 6 at 2017 3:11 AM

SPC Jeff Dougie — Fri, 06 Jan 2017 03:11:14 -0500

When I got back from Iraq a few buddies and I got downgraded awards to AAM. We spent most of our deployment outside the wire. The POGS who spent their whole deployment on base got ARCOMs and of course all of the e-7 and above got the bronze star. My buddy threw his in the trash and I would have too but they lost mine lol. I never received anything. They made me walk up there and not receive a fucking thing. I ETS'd soon after and left all that behind me.

Response by MSgt Bill Titter made Jan 6 at 2017 1:14 PM

MSgt Bill Titter — Fri, 06 Jan 2017 13:14:41 -0500

Have been retired from USMC over 30 years. Haven't kept up with Army abbreviations. What is ETS?

Response by SPC Andrew McGrew made Jan 6 at 2017 1:51 PM

SPC Andrew McGrew — Fri, 06 Jan 2017 13:51:18 -0500

For someone who just starting his military career i don't have much say in this matter. As someone who wants to become an officer i'd say take every award you can get even a participation award unfortunately the only way the army recognizes anyone is if their name is on a certificate. As a sgt you know you cant do any thing in the army with out a piece of paper. An ETS award may just be a paper saying hey you didnt screw up but is still considered an award their are civilian jobs that will look at that greatly and hire you because you completed something that not a lot of people can say they completed

Response by SSG Tony Priestley made Jan 6 at 2017 2:21 PM

SSG Tony Priestley — Fri, 06 Jan 2017 14:21:59 -0500

Not necessary thank you

Response by SSG Scott Thelen made Jan 6 at 2017 4:58 PM

SSG Scott Thelen — Fri, 06 Jan 2017 16:58:26 -0500

I can relate to this question. I was offered an ARCOM as a retirement award after 20 years of service. It was insulting to say the least, so I declined my final NCOER and did not attend the retirement ceremony. For you, I believe the best way to do this would be to simply tell your 1SG/Commander. Sometimes, there is no way around receiving a sh#t award because it is "part of the out-processing process".

Response by CW3 Danny Abraham made Jan 6 at 2017 5:15 PM

CW3 Danny Abraham — Fri, 06 Jan 2017 17:15:18 -0500

So I went through this has I was retiring. My DD214 appointment was fast approaching so I kept bugging my S1 for it. I was assured it was coming along fine and then the day of my DD214 appointment comes along and, not only is the award not finished but it got kicked back has a rewrite to a lower award. Needless to say I just told them and my BC not to worry about it since I already had a couple of those awards and I needed to have it that day for my final DD214. They all thought I was ungrateful but having another of an award that I already had really didn't mean anything and it's not like I am going to wear the award on a uniform again.

I have been out for nearly three months and every time I talk to my BC he says they are still working on it. I still think they are wasting their time and could be doing other things. But, what do I know?

Response by CPO William Erickson made Jan 6 at 2017 7:47 PM

CPO William Erickson — Fri, 06 Jan 2017 19:47:42 -0500

I'm a little hazey on this one. Being Navy, I don't recall an "ETS" award. We had plenty of awards that weren't worth anything. I'm supposing this like a participation award? How about a brief on this one for an old squid-dog.

Response by 1SG John Castaneda made Jan 7 at 2017 12:06 AM

1SG John Castaneda — Sat, 07 Jan 2017 00:06:20 -0500

Some say suck it, some say a handshake, I prefered the hand shake

Response by Cpl Jennifer Furlong made Jan 7 at 2017 10:19 AM

Cpl Jennifer Furlong — Sat, 07 Jan 2017 10:19:26 -0500

Be gracious. Accept the award and use that opportunity to thank them but highlight the ones you believe are more deserving of the credit.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Jan 7 at 2017 12:07 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Sat, 07 Jan 2017 12:07:19 -0500

If you honestly want to get recognition for your soldiers, write them letters of continuity for their ETS/PCS awards so the don't get handed a blank 638 for their input from a new NCO.

Recommend that you reconsider accepting a ETS award. CPL Wilfred Roberge put it far more eloquently than I could.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2017 4:33 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 07 Jan 2017 16:33:32 -0500

I spent 8 months in Korea away from my family, and had to leave early for a MEB due to permanent injury. I served with zero issues, and did not even receive a COA for PCS, while people got ARCOMs for spending 2 weeks in the barracks during exercises. I totally understand why you feel the way you do. It is just an award, most civilian employers don't know the difference between an AAM and an MSM, and no one cares how "stacked" you are at the unit ball. Id just toss it in the trash if I was that dead set on not receiving it.

Response by MSgt Kevin Watts made Jan 7 at 2017 5:32 PM

MSgt Kevin Watts — Sat, 07 Jan 2017 17:32:32 -0500

Go talk to your SgtMaj, be professional and make your case and listen to his recommendations. He is your senior enlisted and will give you his recommendation. Listen to him and follow his guidance.

Response by MSgt Rudy Armijo made Jan 7 at 2017 8:11 PM

MSgt Rudy Armijo — Sat, 07 Jan 2017 20:11:54 -0500

Man up! Tell your First Seargeant you don't don't want it and why. MAN UP!

Response by CPO Mike Jamison made Jan 7 at 2017 9:16 PM

CPO Mike Jamison — Sat, 07 Jan 2017 21:16:06 -0500

You don't tell them anything and you accept the award. As a SGT and leader, you should respect the tradition and set an example for those you lead. You are probably familiar with the phrase, "Counsel in private, praise in public." If you have a "bad taste", you are doing a disservice to those who look up to you. Accept your award in public and schedule a one-on-one with senior leadership to express your issues and bring a proposed solution(s). If you keep those issues bottled up, you will be setting yourself up for years of regret.
Lastly and contrary to your statement, "that a civilian company cares not a whit about"...it does matter. In getting the post-military career I am in now, I had to provide written artifacts documenting my experience and qualifications. My end of tour award was the only document that officially proved all of my late military career accomplishments. Granted, if you choose to work at Wal-Mart, Home Depot or the likes, it does not matter. If you want a real career that pays well, it matters. Future employers do not have the time or the desire to call your prior military leaders and discuss your qualifications. A permanent document is always the way to go.
Keep charging!
Signed,
A Navy Chief (Retired)

Response by SSgt Deryl Collins made Jan 7 at 2017 11:15 PM

SSgt Deryl Collins — Sat, 07 Jan 2017 23:15:43 -0500

In a few years that award will have some sentamental value too you. Maybe you might not think so right now, but it will remind you of the good times and the comraderie from your years of service. Take care and good luck.

Response by SSG Edward Palomares made Jan 8 at 2017 6:40 AM

SSG Edward Palomares — Sun, 08 Jan 2017 06:40:27 -0500

I'm assuming a ETS award is a End of Service award! Isn't a DD Fom 214 a form of an award if you get out Honorably? Now retiring is slightly different after doing 21 years! I accepted a retirement award in the form of a MSM. Did the ETS award replace the ARCOM?

Response by SSG Nick Stansberry made Jan 8 at 2017 8:03 AM

SSG Nick Stansberry — Sun, 08 Jan 2017 08:03:13 -0500

I had to medically retire after 21 years I really didn't feel like an award for my retirement was necessary but the person that wrote the award for me explain to me he felt it was important for him to be able to write this award because he felt my career and the sacrifices that I made deserve that recognition. Never asked him what it was and never really cared What mattered to me was someone felt that I made a real positive contribution to the Army. I have seen people get upset because they were given and an ARCOM as an ETS award or a retirement award and felt they deserved more that's just Petty and they didn't deserve an award in the first place.

Response by SP6 Joseph Davies made Jan 8 at 2017 8:50 AM

SP6 Joseph Davies — Sun, 08 Jan 2017 08:50:56 -0500

I would go to the chain of command and speak with them privately about the matter. Making issues like that public for the whole unit to see could have a very negative impact on unit morale and cohesion. There are many reasons the sm may not want it. It may be out of guilt, survivors guilt or other forms of PTSD or issues developed from combat.

Response by TSgt Michael Herrera made Jan 8 at 2017 9:47 AM

TSgt Michael Herrera — Sun, 08 Jan 2017 09:47:47 -0500

Maybe I'm rusty, but last I can remember my ETS award was my DD214

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2017 2:46 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Jan 2017 14:46:55 -0500

Look I know how you feel. I was at a post for 9 years and 4 deployments. Our unit went light from heavy. After writing 13 awards for my Soldiers I was not writing my own award. However in hind site I should have went ahead and done it. Instead I'm short an award that I should have gotten

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2017 3:22 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Jan 2017 15:22:28 -0500

Honestly after 17 years i am about to get a medical retirement and after being at my current duty station for almost 7 years and my command not appricating everything i habe done their i simply went to the SFC who just arrived at the unit 6 months ago and informed him if the unit could not appreciate everything i did while i have been here then dont waste your time i do not want an award now as i am leaving because that is the expectation i will just get a memo to clear without an award that way i am not turning it down in front of the Soldiers i will just quietly leave and continue with my life

Response by SFC George Hirtman made Jan 8 at 2017 4:34 PM

SFC George Hirtman — Sun, 08 Jan 2017 16:34:45 -0500

Back in the day you had to beg for an award that you deserve then it gets down graded or even worse you have to write your own award.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2017 7:13 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Jan 2017 19:13:26 -0500

I have been in the military for over 22 years. I spent 5 years out of the military in the civilian sector. There are a lot of prior service guys, vets and retirees in the civilian sector in management positions. If you think an ETS award doesn't matter, you are wrong. If you run into someone who has served, no matter the service, they will wonder why you didn't get an award and you will have to answer for that. Stop pushing back against a system that is actually trying to help you. And stop worrying about what other people have to do to get that accomplished. That is their job and each person uses those opportunities to enhance their skills in writing and it helps them out in the end. You are focused on the wrong thing Soldier and need to put your efforts into making yourself look more marketable for the civilian workforce. I speak from experience. And as such I see you as seeking attention more than bucking the system. I may be coming off wrong in that assessment but that is how you are portraying yourself. Take the award, appreciate it, say thank you, and move just move on to making a better life for yourself outside of the uniform.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2017 8:56 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Jan 2017 20:56:04 -0500

There is a memo to clear without an award. Also if you clear without an award the unit knows and cares less over time mailing it to you from my view of things. Ets awards and pcs awards are mandatory unless you're flagged nowadays anyways. Just do whatever you need to do to get out. If that involves writing it... Then write it, copy paste if you don't care but one day you might be proud of your service and regret looking at a bs award so be honest. Imo of course.

Response by 1stSgt Don Barbiea made Jan 8 at 2017 10:41 PM

1stSgt Don Barbiea — Sun, 08 Jan 2017 22:41:38 -0500

I believe we should always be the example to younger troops. Stand tall take the award and move on. Keep your bearing. My opinion

Response by Tom Vaughn made Jan 8 at 2017 11:51 PM

Tom Vaughn — Sun, 08 Jan 2017 23:51:24 -0500

Not familiar with an ETS AWARD. Can someone give me the civilian explanation.

Response by Tom Vaughn made Jan 8 at 2017 11:56 PM

Tom Vaughn — Sun, 08 Jan 2017 23:56:30 -0500

if I'm not mistaken that is an "END OF TOUR" award of some sort.?

Response by LTC George Condyles made Jan 9 at 2017 10:59 AM

LTC George Condyles — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 10:59:49 -0500

I am a retired LTC (O-5) with 4 years of AD (West Germany 80-84) and 20 years as a Reservist. Some of you already hate my guts, but please read on. As a young Platoon Leader in West Germany 80-84 there was really no policy for a EM-ETS soldier would receive anything other than GCM (If the S-1 and Company Commander were on the ball) and a Company Commander Letter or Bn. Certificate of Award prior to his ETS. (Those were typed up hurriedly as the soldier was out processing.) In 1983 the AAM, ASR and OSR where developed. Instead of getting a Letter of Appreciation from the Company Commander (o-3) which if less than a O-5 could not be placed in your Personnel Jacket (201 File) you really had nothing. All of the EMs in my platoon (Best in the whole F@#$%^& Army) were hard working soldiers (1-D-12-8th ID) When they ETS, DEROS, PCS all of them I made sure got everything they had earned. I would plan 30 days out. As a Company Commander, I would plan 60 days out and hold the Platoon Leaders feet to the fire. As a Reserve Bn. Commander the Company Commanders feet. Awards and decorations are important. Then after my Bn. Co position, I went to a higher echelon Staff position. Worked my A@@ of, then in the end my O-7 asked me to write my retirement award (MSM) the night before my retirement and he would approve it. I felt humiliated and pissed off. This guy preached "Taking care of the soldiers and going the next mile". ETC ETC. I decided the Award wasn't for me, but my peers and wonderful soldiers I lead during my 24 year career. I wrote it up as a thank you to them and my family. It has been over 15 years since then and I look at the certificate and thank my family and soldiers for these times. BOTTOM LINE.. TAKE THE AWARD AND THANK ALL YOUR PEERS AND SOLDIERS AND REMEMBER THE GOOD TIMES !!

Response by SPC Kyle Hoff made Jan 9 at 2017 11:14 AM

SPC Kyle Hoff — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 11:14:37 -0500

I utilized the early ETS option for a job and my command had a very difficult time with how quickly I was supposed to start my new civilian job...I left the day receiving my DD-214 with nothing but a coin, handshake from the battalion commander, and no ETS award let alone an impact award that was "in the works" for the last 6 months. That was July and still haven't received my award...
I was just happy to be released for good behavior.

If you want an award, be direct about it and ask. Take it if it is given. If you have to write it, do the minimum and God willing no one thinks it should be upgraded. Put it in a frame and put it up in your new job somewhere if you can.

Response by SP6 Ralph Klinestiver made Jan 9 at 2017 11:36 AM

SP6 Ralph Klinestiver — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 11:36:17 -0500

It is a bad ideal to reject your ETS award. This award can be used to pad a resume when you are moving to the civilian world. Further, it is in poor taste to throw out something that someone has put the time and work to thank you for your service. If you have bad feelings about the unit, then it is always best to take the high side of the road by moving on to better opportunities.

Response by 1SG Ron Bjerklund made Jan 9 at 2017 11:54 AM

1SG Ron Bjerklund — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 11:54:19 -0500

If you enlisted just to get awards, or expect to recieve them, you shouldn't have enlisted from the start. NCO creed prioritizes as #1 Mission and #2 Men, I don't see anything there about you getting anything.

I retired after 22 years, 18 years with the same BN. All I got was a DD214 and soldiers who still call on me, that should be enough.

Response by SGT James Lipscomb made Jan 9 at 2017 12:55 PM

SGT James Lipscomb — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 12:55:59 -0500

Do what Yasarian did

Response by SPC Wilkens Valme made Jan 9 at 2017 5:18 PM

SPC Wilkens Valme — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 17:18:58 -0500

I made my own....had everybdy sign my shirt and wrote comments

Response by SGT James Miller made Jan 9 at 2017 5:33 PM

SGT James Miller — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 17:33:05 -0500

Just tell them to send it in the mail. G2G

Response by CSM Jorge Altamirano made Jan 9 at 2017 6:08 PM

CSM Jorge Altamirano — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 18:08:16 -0500

You will not miss the award today, but you will miss it in the future. The process my suck, but the intent is to recognize good Soldier for their action. It may or may not help get you your next job, but it is not meant to help you get a job. It is to recognize your performance during your tour.

Response by PO2 John Quazman made Jan 9 at 2017 6:09 PM

PO2 John Quazman — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 18:09:56 -0500

I never saw them in the Navy

Response by 1stSgt Edward Brackins made Jan 10 at 2017 2:06 AM

1stSgt Edward Brackins — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 02:06:45 -0500

Excuse me my Army friends, but the article does not say what the award is given for. Please share that if you will.

Response by Jeff Morton made Jan 10 at 2017 2:09 AM

Jeff Morton — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 02:09:43 -0500

I didn't serve but I've been seeing good men and women being kicked out of the services for less. If you get anything less than a honorable discharge how are you going to support your family? I say take it just like the man of honor you are.

Response by LTC Dan Godfrey made Jan 10 at 2017 10:09 AM

LTC Dan Godfrey — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 10:09:14 -0500

Accept the award in a professional manner. You never have to wear the award or inform anyone you have it, but you'll have the option in the future.

Response by PO2 Wood Gunther made Jan 10 at 2017 5:47 PM

PO2 Wood Gunther — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 17:47:07 -0500

Be humble accept the award and shut up

Response by SPC Greg Tiller made Jan 10 at 2017 6:53 PM

SPC Greg Tiller — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 18:53:28 -0500

Take the award and move on. Someone in the unit thought enough of you to write it up.

Response by SGT Mark Saint Cyr made Jan 10 at 2017 10:06 PM

SGT Mark Saint Cyr — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 22:06:23 -0500

The problem I see, is simply, do you think you may ever return to the military or serve in the Army Reserve/National Guard? If the answer is no, then just say you refuse to accept the award, and move on. For those who may wish to return at some future date, an ETS award is better than nothing, as it shows that your unit cares enough about your service as a soldier, and would like to be able to give you more options for the future. NOT getting such an award, and then should you ever decide to return to service, and people will look at you as someone who just filled a slot, perhaps a capable soldier, but nothing more. 30 years from now, that piece of paper may mean a lot more to you then, than it does right now.

Response by SSG Trevor Bambulas made Jan 10 at 2017 10:24 PM

SSG Trevor Bambulas — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 22:24:26 -0500

From what I have read, there is something behind this question; However, we were not there . Speaking from personal experience, my 1SG had me write my ETS award and NCOER in which he downgraded due to my short tenure in the unit. Regardless, being an NCO, we directly and indirectly set standards and examples for soldiers. I would recommend being pinned the award, walking out the door quietly, and during your DD-214 appointment just state you don't have the paperwork to justify it. I took the award because it was a reflection of my time in the unit and thanked those I served with. If you want to set an example, be a professional.

Response by PO1 Laura Shelton made Jan 11 at 2017 2:53 AM

PO1 Laura Shelton — Wed, 11 Jan 2017 02:53:13 -0500

Awards are seldom for the reason they say on the piece of paper, so make them cough up something to say thank you for the time you have given them. Precious time.

Response by CH (LTC) Robert Leroe made Jan 11 at 2017 9:53 AM

CH (LTC) Robert Leroe — Wed, 11 Jan 2017 09:53:29 -0500

Sounds like you're not having a good experience; you hope to put it all behind you and move on. Yet it is usually SOP for most units to issue awards. A friend of mine at his retirement said, "I don't deserve this award...but I'll accept it for all the awards I deserved and didn't get." Be gracious and take what you're given. It might just look good on your resume.

Response by Sgt Michael Fantigrossi made Jan 11 at 2017 6:49 PM

Sgt Michael Fantigrossi — Wed, 11 Jan 2017 18:49:05 -0500

It could be worse brother, when I got out my CWO told me to my face that I didn't warrant anything and not to expect a going away either. God love that man, but the rest of my shop (E-5 and below) salvaged a 155 and turned it into a lamp with a plaque on it for me. Best thing I've ever received.

Response by PFC Stephen Vago made Jan 11 at 2017 6:55 PM

PFC Stephen Vago — Wed, 11 Jan 2017 18:55:56 -0500

Not interested in any award just really like the site .I'm from 72/75 .it makes me proud of the younger people being involved in America

Response by MSG Norm Nunnally made Jan 11 at 2017 7:48 PM

MSG Norm Nunnally — Wed, 11 Jan 2017 19:48:16 -0500

After 39 years 5 months and 23 days the way they found out was,,,,,,I was not there. My thoughts at the time was that absence makes the heart grow fonder.

Response by SCPO Robert Henry made Jan 12 at 2017 1:03 AM

SCPO Robert Henry — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 01:03:31 -0500

Not sure what an ETS Award is

Response by SSG James Hubert made Jan 12 at 2017 7:19 AM

SSG James Hubert — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 07:19:44 -0500

never having experienced what an ETS award was during my time in the military I will not be able to give a comment on how we react to it receiving an ETS Award in today's Military.

Response by SP5 Bruce Smith made Jan 12 at 2017 9:31 AM

SP5 Bruce Smith — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 09:31:35 -0500

When I got out in 91, they asked if I wanted an award, and told them no. End of story.

Response by CPL Alfonzo Colter made Jan 12 at 2017 10:22 AM

CPL Alfonzo Colter — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 10:22:27 -0500

I just ETS my unit was just to lazy to write an ETS award for me even being at FORT RILEY. The reason was because I didn't have a PT test. But that is just some BS to cover for how fucked they are. Because I had surgery in September so I couldn't take one. When my Commander and first line told the reason why I wouldn't be getting one I told them both out right it's OK because I can't use that in the civilian world. Shit the GS jobs won't even look at them.

Response by SGT William Patterson made Jan 12 at 2017 4:49 PM

SGT William Patterson — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 16:49:32 -0500

It's mind over matter I don't mind and you don't matter

Response by SgtMaj Tom Schlechty made Jan 12 at 2017 5:36 PM

SgtMaj Tom Schlechty — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 17:36:08 -0500

I feel your pain. I didn't want mine at the end of a 26 year career. I seemed a little cheesey to me to "recognise" someone with a MSM for a career where they were competitively promoted to E-9 while never being recognised with a NAM or NCM. My squadron commander said I would get his ass in a crack if he didn't write one up so I took it and moved on. I have much more pride in the plaque the junior enlisted gave me though.

Response by Michael Wheatley made Jan 12 at 2017 6:43 PM

Michael Wheatley — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 18:43:11 -0500

So here is the thoughts of the son of a ww2 vet. Every service member is a hero in my eyes. Just for signing up. You do not get the recognition you deserve. Please take the award, tell your children all about your service, and be the person you were when you volunteered. You signed up with an honorable intention, I bet, and regardless of how your service has gone, there is still honor in your heart.

Response by SSG Joseph Lanza made Jan 12 at 2017 7:47 PM

SSG Joseph Lanza — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 19:47:26 -0500

Heck I really don't see what the "issue" is here. If your Chain of Command want to thank you for your Service...why get bent out of shape about it. WTH?? I got enough money but I would never refuse another Medal if "Others" thought it was deemed appropriate....LOL...And I did not get Drafted in the Military, I volunteered.

Response by MSG Vera Akomah made Jan 12 at 2017 8:04 PM

MSG Vera Akomah — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 20:04:36 -0500

Take the award and be professional. You represent the NCOs. You may not want the award but someone thinks you deserts it. Accept it and be the NCO you are and be professional.

Response by SFC William Allen made Jan 12 at 2017 8:10 PM

SFC William Allen — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 20:10:52 -0500

Accept the award and the spirit it was given to you. suck it up buttercup.

Response by 1SG Crit Cable made Jan 12 at 2017 10:06 PM

1SG Crit Cable — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 22:06:17 -0500

Be grateful! The unit may have not lived up to your exspectations but the organization is beyond measurable. I'm sure you're walking away with more than you entered.

Response by PFC Tonya Calderon made Jan 13 at 2017 11:09 AM

PFC Tonya Calderon — Fri, 13 Jan 2017 11:09:56 -0500

Stay alert stay alive

Response by CW3 James Downen made Jan 14 at 2017 1:07 AM

CW3 James Downen — Sat, 14 Jan 2017 01:07:58 -0500

N/A

Response by B Dale made Jan 14 at 2017 3:19 AM

B Dale — Sat, 14 Jan 2017 03:19:07 -0500

Accept the award from the top brass and then divide it up amongst you soldiers.

Response by SGT Richard Yaney made Jan 14 at 2017 11:26 AM

SGT Richard Yaney — Sat, 14 Jan 2017 11:26:34 -0500

Its always a team effert.

Response by LCpl Nick Stiso made Jan 14 at 2017 11:37 AM

LCpl Nick Stiso — Sat, 14 Jan 2017 11:37:09 -0500

Id just take it when I was at 29 stumps(palms) I hated everything and everyone their but one day while we were doing PT some of the guys including noticed what looked like a fuel truck stuck in the sand we asked if we could go help to my surprise our sgt. Said yes and only about a day later after getting the truck unstuck we found out it was the fuel truck for the helicopter for the base hospital. The man driving was a retired high ranking officer of the navy and me were told buy sgtmaj that when the man called he was in tears at how much our help ment. Short story way all got a LOA and after that I felt some of us including me were treated better so you never know accepting the award might help you in some weird way that you cant predict right now...

Response by LCpl Nick Stiso made Jan 14 at 2017 11:40 AM

LCpl Nick Stiso — Sat, 14 Jan 2017 11:40:18 -0500

Im on my OFP(own fucking program)

Response by MSG Richard Medina made Jan 14 at 2017 12:45 PM

MSG Richard Medina — Sat, 14 Jan 2017 12:45:40 -0500

Ok, if you are going to write anyways, do in anticipation of the future. When get to be my age (57) and have a grandson nearing the teenage years(12) now. I expect questions about my service and one of the stories I can tell if about my last years of my service which will always tie in with other stories along my military career. Over 28yrs of svc and a son which was in Iraq at the same time as I was (my grandson's father btw).

Response by MSG Steve Wiersgalla made Jan 14 at 2017 7:04 PM

MSG Steve Wiersgalla — Sat, 14 Jan 2017 19:04:47 -0500

Seem to me a lot of effort is being wasted when all you have to do is say "yes sir, yes sir three bags full" take the award and throw it in a box to be discovered by your family after you're dead and gone. Problem solved. It's not worth the effort. In my day you didn't get a damn award unless you damn well deserved it. Sorry for my lack of caring about awards but no one deserves an award for doing their job.

Response by SFC Ted Witham made Jan 14 at 2017 9:39 PM

SFC Ted Witham — Sat, 14 Jan 2017 21:39:10 -0500

What to hell is an ets award

Response by SFC Michael Simmons made Jan 15 at 2017 8:20 AM

SFC Michael Simmons — Sun, 15 Jan 2017 08:20:40 -0500

Just accept the award and move on.

Response by PO1 Richard Dennehy made Jan 15 at 2017 1:15 PM

PO1 Richard Dennehy — Sun, 15 Jan 2017 13:15:37 -0500

I agree. It is team work, not one man. No I in team

Response by SGM James VanGalder made Jan 15 at 2017 9:15 PM

SGM James VanGalder — Sun, 15 Jan 2017 21:15:07 -0500

After 6 years in the US Air Force and 28 years in the US Army Reserves, I have never heard of nor given any award to a soldier for ETSing and leaving Reserve or AD. I retired out in July 2008 and up until then, when a soldier retired or completed their tour, they might get a letter but never an award. Awards were either given for excellent service or for valo but never for just completing service. My last communications with the Army was to inform me that my term of service ended the month I turned age 60. Still receive Echoes newsletter but nothing else from the Department of the Army.

Response by SP5 Joyce Eikenberry made Jan 15 at 2017 10:06 PM

SP5 Joyce Eikenberry — Sun, 15 Jan 2017 22:06:36 -0500

Hah -- I never got any kind of "award." They wanted to take me back "home" which by the time my ETS came around, was a vacant lot. They insisted. I was more stubborn than they were, and stayed put where I was: in the house trailer my husband John and I had bought.

John retired several years later, and he did get an award. The general and his people walked over to where I was sitting (with my crutches beside me) and presented me with a "good wife" award! LOL

Response by Karen Blair made Jan 16 at 2017 1:44 AM

Karen Blair — Mon, 16 Jan 2017 01:44:29 -0500

First of all, I would be gracious about being picked to receive the award and then second, Please excuse yourself Graciously and let them know that you don't feel that you deserve the award and ask that if you could you would pick another who you think deserves it more than you!! Thank them and God for picking you first before anything else that happens!!!

Response by CSM Andrew Perrault made Jan 16 at 2017 11:33 AM

CSM Andrew Perrault — Mon, 16 Jan 2017 11:33:42 -0500

You SGT have NO say in the matter

Response by SPC Oscar N Kim Gerry made Jan 16 at 2017 2:03 PM

SPC Oscar N Kim Gerry — Mon, 16 Jan 2017 14:03:53 -0500

I never received or was even offered my ETS award my unit was still on deployment when I Ets'd back stateside and I never received any of my deployment or ETS award

Response by LTC George Gallenthin III made Jan 16 at 2017 3:41 PM

LTC George Gallenthin III — Mon, 16 Jan 2017 15:41:50 -0500

Your actions depends on long term goals.

Response by CPL Jarrod Beauvais made Jan 16 at 2017 6:35 PM

CPL Jarrod Beauvais — Mon, 16 Jan 2017 18:35:58 -0500

My unit can suck a fat duck 4th brigade was my family and when we moved all the toxic leadership came with it ever cum dumpster leader that ever lived came to our unit besides certain ncos

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2017 8:28 AM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 08:28:13 -0500

I would just accept the award and move on. As someone else said, it's setting a bad example for younger joes.

Response by SGT Tony Roberts made Jan 17 at 2017 12:44 PM

SGT Tony Roberts — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 12:44:30 -0500

I would explain it to your command as you did here. Emphasize your view that your soldiers deserve recognization more so. There's nothing wrong with taking the award but based on your post, it seems like you're taking the high road and showing that you value your soldiers first and foremost. It's all about perspective.

Response by CDR Michael Barrett made Jan 17 at 2017 6:59 PM

CDR Michael Barrett — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 18:59:30 -0500

DD-214 serves as the ETS award in my opinion. If a service member serves above and beyond expectations they will typically be recognized for their performance. This is a meaningless award in my opinion.

Response by Nicholas Mcclurken made Jan 17 at 2017 7:06 PM

Nicholas Mcclurken — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 19:06:42 -0500

Wow

Response by SrA Tom Verb made Jan 17 at 2017 11:20 PM

SrA Tom Verb — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 23:20:09 -0500

Whenever I had a problem like this I always looked to my core values that the Air Force loved making us remember. And my favorite is number 1, Integrity First. Do what is right. If you don't feel you earned something don't accept it. But do not do this in a manner that is disrespectful. Unless you are full on out you can still be hit up with some UCMJ nonjudicial punishment.

Response by CPO Thissite Isbadopsec made Jan 18 at 2017 6:55 AM

CPO Thissite Isbadopsec — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 06:55:05 -0500

Just tell your senior enlisted that you do not desire an award. If someone told me they didn't care, I would not waste the time unless they were truly deserving of an award and had a command wide impact while assigned. If awards are done right, they take time to draft, smooth and produce.

Response by Amy Kernan made Jan 18 at 2017 9:51 AM

Amy Kernan — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 09:51:16 -0500

As the daughter of a soldier, I would encourage you to take it. It may not mean much to you right now, but one day your children will cherish it. My father passed away 10 years ago. He was a USMC Carlson's Raider. He had 2 Purple Hearts. After the war, he became a doctor and moved on with his life. He kept very few things from his war time days and what he did keep was lost in a fire. You see, while we were out of town burying him, some scum broke into my parent's house. This person flicked a cigarette onto their mattress and the whole house and everything in it burned down. I recently filed a request to get his records from his service and replace his awards so I could make a memory box for my son. Those "little" awards mean the world to us.

Response by Marilyn Durbin made Jan 18 at 2017 9:58 AM

Marilyn Durbin — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 09:58:48 -0500

He only did it for his transgender fans. Obama doesnt care what decent people think. Bergdahal will be next

Response by SGT Donnie Dickerson made Jan 18 at 2017 2:15 PM

SGT Donnie Dickerson — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 14:15:57 -0500

So glad I didn't serve under that POS. I feel bad for the ones that have.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 11:48 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 23:48:44 -0500

Why wouldn't you just take it? To me that would be something honorable. You served your time and now you are honorably getting out of the Army. I served 4 years in the Marines before the Army and I kept every piece of paper that was awarded to me.

Response by CW4 Billy Dove made Jan 19 at 2017 12:43 AM

CW4 Billy Dove — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 00:43:26 -0500

Be grateful someone appreciated your work and took their time to write the award, make a thousand corrections, submit, follow it through the chain, re-write it after it is lost, resubmit it and finally see that your ungrateful butt gets it. Smile, say thank you go home and put it in a drawer. Take it out twenty years later and say "hey, at one time someone actually appreciated what I did".

Response by HN Anne West made Jan 19 at 2017 3:16 AM

HN Anne West — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 03:16:06 -0500

I suspect the man's a hero and the whole court martial is a SNAFU

Response by SGT Brent Shires made Jan 19 at 2017 6:09 PM

SGT Brent Shires — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 18:09:00 -0500

The Army is like a vegetable garden sometimes one has to be replanted every once in a while. look for another career field that has a shortage. Then replant yourself into your new career field through re-enlistment.

Response by PO1 David Smith made Jan 20 at 2017 12:32 AM

PO1 David Smith — Fri, 20 Jan 2017 00:32:45 -0500

I don't recognize the ETS acronym. Explanation please.

Response by SFC Ronald Osborn made Jan 20 at 2017 9:03 AM

SFC Ronald Osborn — Fri, 20 Jan 2017 09:03:30 -0500

I too hated writing awards. It seemed you had to start at least 6 months out for an impact award and by then the soldiers thought that what they did was unappreciated

Response by SSG Dave Austin Jr made Jan 21 at 2017 12:46 AM

SSG Dave Austin Jr — Sat, 21 Jan 2017 00:46:26 -0500

I hand walked my med retirement award from my company to battalion had its signed by the BN Xo and walked it to brigade and cleared then final out. I am so glad I wasn't handed it in formation. I was embarrassed to be in my unit

Response by SGT Roy Brewer made Jan 21 at 2017 1:38 AM

SGT Roy Brewer — Sat, 21 Jan 2017 01:38:58 -0500

As a soldier you do your job as best you can and move on. Only ones who care are your fellow troops. Neff said.

Response by SGM Christopher Warren made Jan 22 at 2017 12:28 PM

SGM Christopher Warren — Sun, 22 Jan 2017 12:28:18 -0500

Well I just threw the damn thing on the ground right as the commander saluted me. Then I walked off straight to my car then home! Guess what I was already on terminal leave ! So piss on him and his political correctness obama bullshit! That's why I retired!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2017 1:12 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 22 Jan 2017 13:12:20 -0500

If you do not want it then you should have the right to not take it ,but I know they do what they want most of the time ,money would help you more than a award , keep your head up because we the troops back you ,may God bless you

Response by Sgt John Ikie made Jan 22 at 2017 9:07 PM

Sgt John Ikie — Sun, 22 Jan 2017 21:07:23 -0500

What you have stated pretty much sums it up.

Response by PFC Steve Todd made Jan 23 at 2017 4:42 AM

PFC Steve Todd — Mon, 23 Jan 2017 04:42:34 -0500

I'm sorry, but what's an ets award?

Response by SFC Kenneth Baker made Jan 23 at 2017 1:13 PM

SFC Kenneth Baker — Mon, 23 Jan 2017 13:13:32 -0500

I had a guy in my unit in Fort Benning who did three tours in Viet Nam. He got out for a few years and came back in. He worked running a range while he was here due to some medical issues. As a SSG, the unit gave him an AAM as his retirement award. If it were me, I would have thrown that in their faces, but he sucked it up and walked across the stage to collect it. I guess, by that time, he didn't have that many f*cks to give.

Response by CPT Joseph Martin made Jan 23 at 2017 7:29 PM

CPT Joseph Martin — Mon, 23 Jan 2017 19:29:37 -0500

I agree a "reward" should not be a burden to the recipient because of poor process within the organization especially when someone is focused on the next chapter of their life

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 24 at 2017 8:40 AM

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 08:40:31 -0500

Wow 240k views u famous Ben. Thanks for making your old orderly room life easy when it came to this award lmao

Response by SSG Gerald King made Jan 24 at 2017 12:15 PM

SSG Gerald King — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 12:15:06 -0500

Deleted comment

Response by CSM Jim Hardin made Jan 25 at 2017 7:30 AM

CSM Jim Hardin — Wed, 25 Jan 2017 07:30:06 -0500

Never looked for kind of award, So why in the HELL would I write my own AWARD?>>>>>>

Response by MAJ Richard Cheek made Jan 27 at 2017 7:01 AM

MAJ Richard Cheek — Fri, 27 Jan 2017 07:01:02 -0500

Those little bits of cloth and medal are all we get. Not like you get a bonus for good work.
An Impact ARCOM for discovering an enemy infiltration route went to a Special Duty awards clerk after the NCO ETSd and the change of command occurred.
New commanding general decided the old commanding general was wrong to award a company commander a MSM even after the old CG told the BDE Commander he wanted it awarded.
Bn Commander decided that he did not want to inflate the system so NO awards for Just Cause even three soldiers that were given a Letter of Commendation from the President of Panama. Now he did accept a Bronze star for ALL OF US.

Response by CPT Glenn Archer made Jan 29 at 2017 4:35 PM

CPT Glenn Archer — Sun, 29 Jan 2017 16:35:35 -0500

Is this a big deal now? I was an infantry company commander back in the 80s. If I learned that one of my NCOs requested no ETS award, I would say no problem, fine with me, tell the S-1, and wouldn't give it a second thought. If the S-1 processed it anyway, well then I guess the old man overruled me and you will get your award, soldier. This is the Army, not a democracy. Accept it in a dignified manner.

Response by SSG Gerald King made Feb 2 at 2017 12:14 PM

SSG Gerald King — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 12:14:30 -0500

I received the MSM when I got out. But, don't believe that was an ETS award because the recommendation was written when the command still expected me to stay in the military. The award was for the work I had done the previous two years. It was only in the last month or so that I decided I did not want to re-enlist. Also, the date of the award was January of 1976. I never learned of the award until 2005. It got lost along the way and I only learned that I had actually been awarded the medal when I contacted the personnel records dept for a list of all my authorized awards etc. . Number one on the list was the MSM.. They included a copy of the orders and an engraved medal.

Response by SSgt Cheree Bessent made Feb 6 at 2017 12:51 AM

SSgt Cheree Bessent — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 00:51:48 -0500

When my NCOIC made noise about having to write an award for my medical retirement (at 16 years of service) I just told him not to bother, if I didn't warrant for one when it would do me some good then why put himself out now.

Response by SGM Thomas Adderley made Feb 14 at 2017 9:25 AM

SGM Thomas Adderley — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 09:25:54 -0500

The simplest method is to refuse acceptance. If you are ordered to take the award take it and then give it/mail it with full explanation for yor refusal to accept to your CSM

Response by SGT Jerry Walker made Feb 14 at 2017 4:56 PM

SGT Jerry Walker — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 16:56:10 -0500

never heard of it.why would they do that?we had a party got on the bus the next morning.

Response by SGT Jerry Walker made Feb 14 at 2017 4:58 PM

SGT Jerry Walker — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 16:58:17 -0500

I did not like you when I got here and I don't like you now bye.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Feb 15 at 2017 2:07 PM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Wed, 15 Feb 2017 14:07:54 -0500

Some have different reasons for wanting or not wanting an award.. I suppose for
S'one who is moving on ; ETS'g.. maybe they may hook up with a Reserve or Guard unit Air or ground. .. even if the individual did an exemplary job.. some may feel not the same.. wether they are justified feeling that way or not I don't know...? If I were to get one.. let me know and I'll tell them where to send it.. work it out so it
would be awarded at the Veteran's Service org. Post or Chapter I belonged to.. or via my Congressman /person or U.S. Rep .. Fine by me.. A friend was awarded their's in front of the community
And his Scout troop at a Memorial Day
Ceremony.. it had been 30 years after he had left Vietnam.. it was from the people of Vietnam .. an appreciation Plaque for helping them rebuild their village after a massive fire.. he had also wrote home to his church asking for baby and toddler clothes.. others in his unit had given of themselves and recognized, he had rotated before they could recognize his efforts.. The Army not to be outdone
awarded an award for community service .
Two nice plaques .. recognizing s'one for other than firing their weapon at the enemy.. his Congressman and U.S. Rep
awarded them and of course added their own recognition of him with a declaration..
for his selfless service to our Country's Ally.

Response by LTC Matthew Robinson made Mar 9 at 2017 8:48 AM

LTC Matthew Robinson — Thu, 09 Mar 2017 08:48:58 -0500

I have stood in your boots, ETS'ing, hating my unit of assignment, knowing I would never, ever, wear the uniform again. Years later I stood on the other side and realized how individual awards impact unit cohesion and morale. Whatever you do, be gracious. It will not kill you to let them pin a small piece of ribbon and metal on you. But, be careful. After ETS I burned everything but my 214. Years later I would regret not being able to prove certain things about my service.

Response by SSG Dale London made Mar 9 at 2017 8:53 AM

SSG Dale London — Thu, 09 Mar 2017 08:53:44 -0500

No matter how you slice it, refusing an ETS award makes you look like a pissy whiner. You may have all the reason in the world to harbor a grudge but no matter how you try to pretty it up you are going to be the one who looks petty minded and small.
My advice - shut your trap, accept the award, and give it to the neighbor's dog to play with when you get home.

Conversely, you could tell the 1SG you'd rather have cash.

Response by 1SG John Highfill made Mar 9 at 2017 12:22 PM

1SG John Highfill — Thu, 09 Mar 2017 12:22:16 -0500

Be yourself

Response by CPL Delbert Helm made Mar 9 at 2017 5:50 PM

CPL Delbert Helm — Thu, 09 Mar 2017 17:50:46 -0500

former spc4 helm I ETSed in 89 never heard of an ETS award. is it like a participation ribbon that I hear Their handing out in basic now for making it past the first week. just wondering what has happened to the army I was in.

Response by SSgt David Tedrow made Jul 10 at 2017 1:18 AM

SSgt David Tedrow — Mon, 10 Jul 2017 01:18:34 -0400

Accept the award graciously and move on. What is the big deal?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 8 at 2020 10:43 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Jul 2020 10:43:35 -0400

You would have to explain WHAT an ETS award is. I have 37 years in and I have never seen one.....

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 8 at 2020 11:35 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Jul 2020 11:35:26 -0400

what is a ETS Award?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 8 at 2020 1:51 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Jul 2020 13:51:53 -0400

Well, I see there are already hundreds of comments.

But from what I’ve seen, in order to avoid getting an ETS award you simply don’t write it yourself, because no one else will write it either.

Then you ETS and everyone forgets all about it.

Response by SSgt Joseph Carroll made Jul 9 at 2020 12:21 PM

SSgt Joseph Carroll — Thu, 09 Jul 2020 12:21:10 -0400

Air Force veteran here (32 years total)..... EVERY award I ever got (including my dod civilian years) were literally either thrown at me or they just came in the mail. Not once did I get to stand before my unit to have something presented to me. Therefore, it is impossible for me to feel sorry for anyone to get an award that they didn't want. The awards matter. Take the award with humility and gratitude, even if they aren't something you feel proud of. Often, the award actually represents the entire unit, not just the individual. It's just that simple. On Iwo Jima, it was said that “Uncommon valor was a common virtue”. There were 27 Medals of Honor awarded amongst the 12,000 American dead. Think about that for a moment.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 9 at 2020 10:03 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Jul 2020 22:03:03 -0400

Dang. My unit repeatedly told me I was getting one and then received nothing. Pretty sure they just forgot. Not much you can do.