Posted on Oct 5, 2016
What is the best way to tell your unit that you in no way shape or form want an ETS award from them?
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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.
Awards
ETS/EAS
Advice
Edited 9 y ago
Posted 9 y ago
Responses: 350
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When I got out in 91, they asked if I wanted an award, and told them no. End of story.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Take the award and move on. Someone in the unit thought enough of you to write it up.
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