When are you authorized to wear two of the same ribbon?

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 11:58:43 -0500

When are you authorized to wear two of the same ribbon? I've only seen it one time and it's on the current Sergeant Major of the Army's dress uniform he wears two AAM ribbons.

Response by SFC Stephen King made Nov 6 at 2015 12:04 PM

SFC Stephen King — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 12:04:31 -0500

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member great question I found it to odd as well...

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_A._Dailey

2nd ribbon for 10th AAM

Daniel A. Dailey - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Daniel A. Dailey is the current Sergeant Major of the Army of the United States Army. He was sworn in as the 15th Sergeant Major of the Army on January 30, 2015. At 42 years old, he is the youngest soldier to serve in this position. Prior to his tenure as the Sergeant Major of the Army, he served as the command sergeant major for the United States Army Training and Doctrine Command.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 6 at 2015 12:32 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 12:32:20 -0500

yeah some screwed up his rack, i hope

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Nov 6 at 2015 12:50 PM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 12:50:02 -0500

It's because it's his 10th award. There's a four device limit on any ribbon. Once he receives another AAM he'll be able to switch back to one ribbon...

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 6 at 2015 12:59 PM

1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 12:59:19 -0500

I had never seen that before. That is a shitload of AAM's. Good on him.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Nov 6 at 2015 2:30 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 14:30:44 -0500

When you have 10 awards of the same chatchkie. Only 4 appurtenances are authorized on any ribbon. For 10 AAM's the max that can be displayed is 9, so the 2nd award follows. I have been grilled over that very issue time and again. I fell into that category.

Response by SSG Mark Metzler made Nov 10 at 2015 4:42 AM

SSG Mark Metzler — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 04:42:17 -0500

When awarded an additional AAM, the SM should get an oak leaf cluster for his ribbon. It should annotated on his orders that way as well.

Response by CH (LTC) Robert Leroe made Nov 10 at 2015 6:01 AM

CH (LTC) Robert Leroe — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 06:01:22 -0500

Can't be...you wear an oak leaf cluster. I was accused of this once because the Overseas Service Ribbon and the Humanitarian Service Medal are very similar. When I pointed that out, the General walked away in a huff.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2015 6:26 AM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 06:26:20 -0500

Section II
Service Ribbon Accouterments
6–3. Oak leaf clusters
A bronze or silver twig of four oak leaves with three acorns on the stem, 13/32-inch long for the suspension ribbon,
and 5/16-inch long for the service ribbon bar and the unit award emblem is issued to denote award of second and
succeeding awards of decorations (other than the AM), the ARCAM, and unit awards. A silver oak leaf cluster is worn
instead of five bronze oak leaf clusters. If the number of authorized oak leaf clusters exceeds four, a second ribbon is
authorized for wear. When wearing the second ribbon, place it after the first ribbon; the second ribbon counts as one
award. Wear no more than four oak leaf clusters on each ribbon. If the receipt of future awards reduces the number of
oak leaf clusters sufficiently (that is, a silver oak leaf clusters for five awards), remove the second ribbon and place the
appropriate number of devices on a single ribbon. Oak leaf clusters are not issued for the LM awarded in degrees to
foreign nationals. Five-sixteenths inch oak leaf clusters joined together in series of 2, 3, and 4 clusters are authorized
for optional purchase and wear on service ribbons, and unit award emblems.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2015 6:58 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 06:58:09 -0500

The SMA is correct. It clearly states it in the regs. That would be AR 670-1. Look it up.

Response by LTC David B. made Nov 10 at 2015 6:59 AM

LTC David B. — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 06:59:59 -0500

Response by SSG Hasbun answers this one (good job btw!), but.......

Anyone see anything wrong with the SWASM? Keep in mind that the first award INCLUDES one star. You wear one star for each period of service (IAW AR 600-8-22, 2-14e)......
Just askin.......

Response by 1SG William Svoboda made Nov 10 at 2015 9:07 AM

1SG William Svoboda — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 09:07:43 -0500

The question is well answered but I want to add a personal note. In Hawaii prior to my retirement, I was sitting down with my new soldiers and one an E7, was wearing his full dress greens battle rattle and I noticed his two AAM ribbons. I didn't say anything in front of the other troop but afterwards I held him back to explore why. During the discussion and my education on the topic I couldn't help joking why so many AAM's and not a ARCOM. I suggested maybe on the 10th he could have traded up? He didn't think that was funny but I also said his hero wall would be like a AAM wallpaper if he was to hang all the certificates up. After some time, I had to visit the DIVARTY SGM and he had 8 AAM' framed on his wall along with his other see me collection. I couldn't take my eyes off that for a good part of our meeting!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2015 9:17 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 09:17:25 -0500

Good catch and good question to ask. I would probably just leave the extra ribbon off and wait for that next AAM to catch up with me.....10 or 11 or 15.....does it really matter at that point?

Response by 1SG Michael Lee made Nov 10 at 2015 10:12 AM

1SG Michael Lee — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 10:12:18 -0500

I had never given this any thought. The AAM was still relatively new when I retired. I had a bunch of ARCOMs and more MSMs than AAMs when I retired.

Response by SFC Michael Peterson made Nov 10 at 2015 10:17 AM

SFC Michael Peterson — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 10:17:18 -0500

While it may be authorized to wear a second AAM representing your 10th award, I find it a little bit ridiculous. I think I would just wear the one ribbon with appurtences showing 9th award. Especially for such a low award. I equate the second ribbon to wearing the Expert badge for Grenade.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2015 10:24 AM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 10:24:34 -0500

He's got 10 AAMs. The 2nd ribbon is due to accoutrement spacing due to 10 awards.

Response by SGT Scott Henderson made Nov 10 at 2015 11:40 AM

SGT Scott Henderson — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 11:40:01 -0500

When you have a crap ton of them and one can't hold all your "clusters", or if they were awarded different things like ARCOM vs ARCOM-V

Response by MAJ Emma Toops made Nov 10 at 2015 1:21 PM

MAJ Emma Toops — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 13:21:11 -0500

Consider the fact that he is the youngest SMA ever. When he was a younger Soldier and doing great and noteworthy things, he was probably only recommended for AAMs because he was a young Soldier. Once he received his first ARCOM, he was probably still doing great things, but was by then "mature" enough for the ARCOM. He will not get an 11th AAM - he is far beyond that for a long time now.

Response by SFC Tim Olguin made Nov 10 at 2015 8:42 PM

SFC Tim Olguin — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 20:42:44 -0500

never Oak Leaf Cluster for an AAM

Response by SSG Wayne Wood made Nov 10 at 2015 8:43 PM

SSG Wayne Wood — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 20:43:41 -0500

Maybe they ought to change the reg so that when you get so many AAMs you can trade them in for an ARCOM or MSM?

Response by CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) made Nov 11 at 2015 12:39 AM

CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) — Wed, 11 Nov 2015 00:39:40 -0500

I've been in for 37 years. I've never seen anyone with 10 AAMs or two ribbons for the same award. Hmmmm... I have all the ribbons/medals I need, except for this. Yes, just seven more, I have five more years to try and accomplish this. Can't wait for the promotion board to see my photo (if I can pull it off). How fast can you make 10 officers pick up a magnifying glass? That is all, carry on.

Response by SSG Richard Reilly made Nov 11 at 2015 11:29 AM

SSG Richard Reilly — Wed, 11 Nov 2015 11:29:30 -0500

V device and no v device?

Response by 1SG David Swearengin made Nov 12 at 2015 11:46 AM

1SG David Swearengin — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 11:46:23 -0500

Yes, that is an awful lot of AAMs.

Response by SSG Mark Metzler made Nov 12 at 2015 11:35 PM

SSG Mark Metzler — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 23:35:08 -0500

An oak leaf cluster is a military device worn on a ribbon decoration to denote multiple receptions of the same award. The use of the oak leaf cluster allows an individual to show that he has received multiple awards of the same type without having to wear multiple ribbons of the same type. These devices are most often used with U.S. Army and U.S....

Checkout: http://www.ehow.com/how_8144705_use-bronze-oak-leaf-clusters.html?utm_source=eHowDesktopShare&utm_medium=email

Response by SFC Jason Hodge made Nov 15 at 2015 5:39 PM

SFC Jason Hodge — Sun, 15 Nov 2015 17:39:26 -0500

If you have been awarded a national guard state award that is th same as a federal or UN ribbon. Like the Ohio Service Ribbon and the United Nations Medal are identical.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 15 at 2015 5:58 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Nov 2015 17:58:06 -0500

Saw this response one but not well explained. The other time that two of the same ribbon can be worn is if one is awarded for valor and the other for service (e.g. ARCOM, MSM, AM, ect)

Response by MAJ Alvin B. made Nov 15 at 2015 7:51 PM

MAJ Alvin B. — Sun, 15 Nov 2015 19:51:20 -0500

You are authorized to,wear two,ribbons of the same away when the number of awards cannot be displayed on a single ribbon.

Example, five awards = the ribbon and four bronze oak leaf cluster all on one ribbon...

Ten awards would require two ribbons one with a silver oak,lead cluster and three bronze oak leaf clusters denoting nine awArds, the tenth award is the second ribbon.

Eleven awards would be denoted by a ribbon with two silver oak leaf clusters.

Twelve awards = the ribbon two,silver oak leaf clusters and one bronze oak leaf cluster

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Nov 15 at 2015 10:12 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Sun, 15 Nov 2015 22:12:29 -0500

We do it different in the Navy (along with CG, PHS, NOAA). There's a combination of gold (1) and silver (5) 5/16th inch stars that you pile on the ribbon for subsequent awards. The only time you'd see 2 ribbons would be the 15th, 19th, 20th, and 23-25th. After the 26th, you'll cycle it again until the 52nd award, having 3 ribbons accordingly sprinkled in there. Obviously that won't happen until the regeneration chamber becomes reliable. Gives new meaning to the EOT awards. SERVICE GUARANTEES CITIZENSHIP!

Response by CW4 Anthony Carbo made Nov 17 at 2015 4:08 PM

CW4 Anthony Carbo — Tue, 17 Nov 2015 16:08:15 -0500

NEVER SEEN IT DONE

Response by SrA David Steyer made Nov 17 at 2015 4:28 PM

SrA David Steyer — Tue, 17 Nov 2015 16:28:23 -0500

When I got my Basic Training yearbook, the Superintendent had TEN Meritorious Service Medals, yes you read that right, 10 MSMs. And he wore two ribbons too.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 5:43 PM

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Nov 2015 17:43:37 -0500

The answer should be never! A bronze oak leaf cluster is for a single subsequent award. Once you receive your sixth award, the oak leaf cluster is changed to a single silver oak leaf cluster. Once the eleventh award is reached, it would have two silver oak leaf clusters, the sixteenth award would have 3 silver, and the twenty-first would have 4 silver oak leaf clusters.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 9:05 PM

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Nov 2015 21:05:04 -0500

I have 10 AAM and wear a second ribbon.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 12:12 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Nov 2015 00:12:24 -0500

AR 670-1 paragraph 29-12(2).. If the number of authorized oak leaf clusters exceeds four and will not fit on a single ribbon, a second ribbon is authorized for wear. When the second ribbon is worn, it is placed after the first ribbon; the second ribbon counts as one award. Personnel may wear no more than four oak leaf clusters on each ribbon.. Translation: 9 awards = 1 silver oak leaf and 3 bronze oak leaf clusters.. All together equals 4 oak leaf clusters. Since this exceeds the maximum amount as per regulation; an additional ribbon is authorized. Hope this clears it up.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 3:20 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Nov 2015 03:20:58 -0500

When I was a company commander one of my NCOs who had 5 ARCOMS and a V device. He had on wear a second ARCOM ribbon. Everytime he wore his greens someone tried to coreect him.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 7:04 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Nov 2015 07:04:50 -0500

The SMA is wrong. He would newd more than 21 awards to wear 2 of he same ribbon. An AAM with 4 silver oak leafs is 21 awards

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 11:27 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Nov 2015 11:27:50 -0500

When you're CMA?

Response by LTC Scott Fedorchak made Nov 18 at 2015 12:29 PM

LTC Scott Fedorchak — Wed, 18 Nov 2015 12:29:27 -0500

The discussion thread is correct, you are only allowed to wear four accoutrements to each ribbon. Another trivia exception is the Medal of Honor, if you have been awarded two Medals of Honor, you have the option of wearing two ribbons or wearing a "V" device of one.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 12:37 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Nov 2015 12:37:06 -0500

I also have 2 AAM ribbons because I have 20 of them with devices included (3 Silver and 1 bronze oak leaf on the first and 2 bronze on the second).

Response by GySgt H.E. (Trey) Salmon III made Nov 18 at 2015 3:01 PM

GySgt H.E. (Trey) Salmon III — Wed, 18 Nov 2015 15:01:40 -0500

Why is it the Army Achievement Medal is so easy to earn? I think the Sergeant Major of the Army has screwed up his awards. Aren't their Silver Oak Leaves to annotate 5 Bronze Oak Leaves? If so, wouldn't it be a problem only if you have about 21 Army Achievement Medals in this case. Something is seriously wrong.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 8:13 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Nov 2015 20:13:36 -0500

Read the Regulation DUMBASS! Please come to my unit. HQ 1-306th IN. So I can show you! You are an idiot and probably a little bitch!!I am at Ft. Stewart GA. I have also received another AAM since this photo and now have two silver oak leaf clusters on a single ribbon!

Response by SGT Lance Snyder made Nov 18 at 2015 8:23 PM

SGT Lance Snyder — Wed, 18 Nov 2015 20:23:21 -0500

I've been retired a while, so rules change, and I may not be up to speed, but I always spending more money everytime I got new award, so at some point I just said (literally) "Fuck It" I'm not spending more of my wife's money for this stupid shit". Isn't representing 9 enough, when you get to choose, by regulation, what awards you wear?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 8:56 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Nov 2015 20:56:15 -0500

Here's another version to the same question. Any service member who previous served in another branch is authorized to wear the equivalent from their respective branch. For example, if a soldier earned a good conduct medal while in the navy, he is authorized to wear the navy and army conduct medals side by side, he does not have to double up on his army medal.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Nov 18 at 2015 9:37 PM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Wed, 18 Nov 2015 21:37:54 -0500

Interesting! Never heard of this.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Nov 19 at 2015 12:10 AM

COL Charles Williams — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 00:10:20 -0500

Silly... I think regardless of the AR... one should be the limit...

Response by SFC Antonio Nieto made Nov 19 at 2015 12:11 AM

SFC Antonio Nieto — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 00:11:53 -0500

i am sure if he is ask, he would provide the right answer

Response by SSgt Christopher Clabaugh made Nov 19 at 2015 8:10 AM

SSgt Christopher Clabaugh — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 08:10:53 -0500

I think the Medal of Honor is the only ribbon / medal that is authorized to wear two separate ribbons because there is no authorized device that denotes two awards. Everything else is bronze oak leaf cluster for an additional award or silver oak leaf cluster denotes 5 of the 1 award. Also bronze star devices are authorized for multiple tours in a certain region.

Response by SGT Dana Williams made Nov 19 at 2015 9:12 AM

SGT Dana Williams — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 09:12:12 -0500

Consider MAJ Louis Cukela, USMC, who was awarded both the Army, and Navy, Medals of Honor. No one had the nerve to say anything to him about it>

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2015 10:00 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 10:00:10 -0500

I have 5 ARCOM's, one with V. As a result, per AR 670-1, I wear two ribbons, one with 3 OLC and a V device, (keeping to max 4 devices on a ribbon) and a stand alone "plain" ARCOM in the next lower position. I don't understand why this is so difficult to understand. It's an unusual but not unheard of situation, and perfectly supported in the reg.

AR 670-1 paragraph 29-12

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2015 11:44 AM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 11:44:40 -0500

And the Navy wouldn't see it until the fifteenth award. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5/16_inch_star

5/16 inch star - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A 516 Inch Star is a miniature gold or silver 516 inch star that is authorized by the United States Armed Forces as a ribbon device for a specific set of decorations of the Department of the Navy, Coast Guard, Public Health Service, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to denote subsequest decorations.[1][2][3][4] A gold star represents one additional award, while a silver star is worn in lieu of five gold stars.

Response by PO2 Robert M. made Nov 19 at 2015 11:56 AM

PO2 Robert M. — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 11:56:52 -0500

This is really out there -
So if Audie Murphy (I believe he was awarded two Medal of Honor awards) - would you wear a "star" on the MOH, or would you wear a ribbon, and then the Medal?
Just wondering.................

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2015 12:11 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 12:11:34 -0500

670-1 22-11 Appurtenances

Response by 1SG Michael Jones made Nov 19 at 2015 12:30 PM

1SG Michael Jones — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 12:30:04 -0500

When i was in i had 10 AAMs as well and it is in the reglation that it requires two ribbons until you recieve the 11th then you go back to one

Response by SGT Jay Ehrenfeld made Nov 19 at 2015 1:39 PM

SGT Jay Ehrenfeld — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 13:39:13 -0500

SGM need to take one off and put number two on the AMM

Response by SGT Jay Ehrenfeld made Nov 19 at 2015 1:39 PM

SGT Jay Ehrenfeld — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 13:39:46 -0500

you can correct the SGM and show him the regulation on wearing proper medals

Response by CPO Jared Zdrojowy made Nov 19 at 2015 2:49 PM

CPO Jared Zdrojowy — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 14:49:44 -0500

Interesting. Learn something new every day.

Response by MSG Clark Shumway made Nov 19 at 2015 3:13 PM

MSG Clark Shumway — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 15:13:01 -0500

Only in the Army

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2015 5:20 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 17:20:20 -0500

Also, if he had a ln arrowhead device or V device then you separate them rom the bulk awards

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2015 5:43 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 17:43:29 -0500

I also think you wear two if one has a "V" device, correct? Ie you have a BSM then get a BSM for Valor. Correct me if I'm wrong.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2015 6:22 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 18:22:58 -0500

Look at SSG Michael Hasban's comment! Well Said!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2015 7:11 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 19:11:13 -0500

That is a board question, I quess the new military doesn't teach that.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2015 7:35 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 19:35:32 -0500

I have always wondered. I have an ARCOM with one Silver and two Bronze Oak Leaves. My problem is I also have a Valor device, Do I wear thaat on it's own ribbon or with the clusters?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2015 7:37 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 19:37:10 -0500

You are not. Where the Army is concerned...a subsequent award of some individual medals (usually performance of duty Awards (DSC, Silver Star, Bronze Star, MSM, ARCOM AAM etc) gets you one bronze oak leaf cluster for each subsequent award. Once you receive your sixth subsequent award you get a single silver oak leaf cluster. Even if you receive the same award from another service the rule still applies. The Medal of Honor is an exception...Since February 1919, no single individual can be awarded more than one Medal of Honor for the same action, although a member of one branch of the armed forces can receive the Medal of Honor from another branch if the actions for which it was awarded occurred under the authority of the second branch. In that case a subsequent award of the MOH gets an entire new award.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2015 8:10 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 20:10:04 -0500

Your not authorized ,that why there are attachments to the award.

Response by PO1 Steve Anderson made Nov 19 at 2015 10:19 PM

PO1 Steve Anderson — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 22:19:34 -0500

Help me out guys, why not just use numbers? My Dad has a number (V 18) on his Air Medal.

Response by SGT Bryan O'Reilly made Nov 20 at 2015 12:23 AM

SGT Bryan O'Reilly — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 00:23:17 -0500

i been out awhile but i thought additional ribbons were always clusters, oak leaf etc. to denote a second award. But I sure as sh!t am not going up and ask the CSMA about it LOL, my but still hurts from the last chewing i got Draw straws?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2015 6:54 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 06:54:00 -0500

SPC Voye, Please take the time to read AR 670-1 and AR 600-8-22 (the entire regulations). Back when I was in, Army regulations and Field Manuals were required readings by "some" of my NCO's. I was reading these regs on my on volition when I was a private.

Response by 1SG Gerald Palmer made Nov 20 at 2015 9:20 AM

1SG Gerald Palmer — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 09:20:35 -0500

When you been awarded 10 AAMs seen a few times when I was in

Response by GySgt Jim Walker made Nov 20 at 2015 9:31 AM

GySgt Jim Walker — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 09:31:32 -0500

As far as the Navy and Marine Corps is concerned, The Medal of Honor if twice awarded would be the only time a ribbon is worn twice.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2015 10:08 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 10:08:53 -0500

SPC(P) Voye,

IAW AR 600-8-22, 6-3 Oak Leaf Clusters
"A silver oak leaf cluster is worn instead of five bronze oak leaf clusters. If the number of authorized oak leaf clusters exceeds four, a second ribbon is authorized for wear. ... Wear no more than four oak leaf clusters on each ribbon. If the receipt of future awards reduces the number of oak leaf clusters sufficiently (that is, a silver oak leaf clusters for five awards), remove the second ribbon and place the appropriate number of devices on a single ribbon."
IAW AR 670-1, 22-11 Appurtenances
"...The silver oak leaf cluster is worn to the wearer’s right of a bronze oak leaf cluster."

Response by GySgt Jim Walker made Nov 20 at 2015 1:04 PM

GySgt Jim Walker — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 13:04:38 -0500

He must be one hell-of-a star sergeant!

Response by SSG Chad Wright made Nov 20 at 2015 1:28 PM

SSG Chad Wright — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 13:28:46 -0500

I have 10 AAM'S as well I also wear two ribbons. You have to wear what the regulation states.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2015 1:47 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 13:47:30 -0500

I have 15,its two ribbons, its in the regs, how did it become an issue?

Response by CSM Dean Bridges made Nov 20 at 2015 3:23 PM

CSM Dean Bridges — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 15:23:55 -0500

I have seen this before and he is correct in what he is wearing. Ret CSM

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2015 3:32 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 15:32:35 -0500

Technically speaking, if you wear both the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Reserve Overseas Training ribbon, you are wearing the same medal. One is just a 90 degree turn away from the other.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2015 3:34 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 15:34:07 -0500

This may not actually meet the criteria of the question, but the Medal of Honor can be worn simultaneously around ones neck and upon the ribbon rack.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Nov 20 at 2015 4:31 PM

LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 16:31:44 -0500

In the Soviet Army? ;)

Response by SGT Lloyd Hinze made Nov 20 at 2015 7:23 PM

SGT Lloyd Hinze — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 19:23:42 -0500

I have seen Vietnam War veterans wearing the same ribbon both on the left side awarded individually and also the right side having been awarded to his unit in the Army! I believe it was the Civil Actions ribbon, but I think there are a couple of others that could also have that happen!

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2015 8:06 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 20:06:39 -0500

Never, you cannot even wear a medal with the adjacent ribbon.

Response by MSgt Kirk Taylor made Nov 20 at 2015 9:28 PM

MSgt Kirk Taylor — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 21:28:46 -0500

When you have earned 2 Congressional Medals of honor would be the correct answer.

Response by LCpl Tad Cunningham made Nov 20 at 2015 10:01 PM

LCpl Tad Cunningham — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 22:01:50 -0500

AAM is an Army Achievement Medal right? Similar to the Marine Corps NAM? I've never seen anyone with more than 6 and he was a MSGT and a SSGT with 5 they were comm and supply. I think non 03 MOS' hand them out like candy.

Response by MSgt Kirk Taylor made Nov 20 at 2015 10:09 PM

MSgt Kirk Taylor — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 22:09:14 -0500

Response by 1SG Kevin Henderson made Nov 20 at 2015 11:00 PM

1SG Kevin Henderson — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 23:00:11 -0500

Yes you can if you have exceeded silver oak leafs

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2015 11:27 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 23:27:53 -0500

When u have to wear two devices like a v device etccc

Response by SSgt Justin Westbrook made Nov 21 at 2015 9:56 AM

SSgt Justin Westbrook — Sat, 21 Nov 2015 09:56:24 -0500

when you have recieved it with Valor and four and four additional times, the V and three oak clusters and then an additional ribbon is worn, when it is awarded again, you switch to one ribbon with the V and a silver oak leaf.

Response by SFC William Farrell made Nov 21 at 2015 12:39 PM

SFC William Farrell — Sat, 21 Nov 2015 12:39:29 -0500

I think what is even more interesting than him wearing two Army Achievement Medals is the fact that he already has the Army's Distinguished Service Medal, a very high award given to Generals and the SMA after a distinguished tenure as SMA SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member. He's a young man, seems to have his act together.

Response by George Avery made Nov 21 at 2015 6:04 PM

George Avery — Sat, 21 Nov 2015 18:04:20 -0500

Might it be that some are awarded with the "V" device for valor, others without it? That would be a legitimate reason to wear two ribbons, as they are essentially different awards. The same might apply to other awards - such as the "V" device added to combat Bronze Stars in order to distinguish them from the "I was there" awards often made to officers nearly automatically at the end of a combat deployment.

Response by SPC Christopher Perrien made Nov 21 at 2015 8:58 PM

SPC Christopher Perrien — Sat, 21 Nov 2015 20:58:00 -0500

I'd like to know if he has orders for all of them. LOL God knows I have 10 or11 , orders for maybe 8, certificates for 6-7 ( not always matching the orders,) 7-8 medals, and my my DD214 says 5th oak leaf cluster LOL. I stopped putting them on my ribbon at 1 silver 2 bronze because I got tired of replacing the ribbon.

Response by SGM Greg Valcin made Nov 21 at 2015 9:30 PM

SGM Greg Valcin — Sat, 21 Nov 2015 21:30:23 -0500

I had 27 years in when I retired 7 years ago and I had 10 AAMs. I received most of them in the first three year period because the BC believed that the rank equal a certain award so there were plenty of downgraded ARCOM after each field excercise. It's not uncommon

Response by CPO Kenneth Wilkinson made Nov 22 at 2015 2:19 AM

CPO Kenneth Wilkinson — Sun, 22 Nov 2015 02:19:19 -0500

I will stay with the Navy. You guys in the other services get to many and no one knows how to wear them. Navy problem is they screw up their uniforms. Seems to change every couple of years. LOL Good luck soldiers GO NAVY

Response by PFC Antoine Felder made Nov 23 at 2015 1:23 AM

PFC Antoine Felder — Mon, 23 Nov 2015 01:23:58 -0500

That would be the first, as I recall.

Response by SGT Anthony Bailey made Nov 23 at 2015 2:03 AM

SGT Anthony Bailey — Mon, 23 Nov 2015 02:03:25 -0500

This reminded me of one situation that I have. I am prior service Navy and enlisted in the Army and when we had a class A inspection this other prior service Navy guy didn't have his Navy Good Conduct on and he said he "transferred" to A Army Good Conduct which has some problems with that since the Navy Good Conduct is for a term of 4 years instead of the Army of 3 years. And then a SPC told me once that I couldn't wear my Navy Good Conduct on my Army uniform. Anyone know about that.

Response by SGT Edward Wacasey made Nov 23 at 2015 8:18 AM

SGT Edward Wacasey — Mon, 23 Nov 2015 08:18:13 -0500

When I was in the Army (80-84), I had recieved 3 AAMs, after the first I was given Oak Leaf Clusters to attach to the ribbon. I was a 95B (MP), so my uniform HAD to be correct, as it was my JOB to correct uniform discrepancies and you could receive a 'citation of violation' or DD 1805 for certain instances.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Nov 23 at 2015 7:52 PM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Mon, 23 Nov 2015 19:52:37 -0500

I was USAF and you are authorized multiples of same ribbon if all award awards will not fit one ribbon.

Response by MSG Mark Redmann made Nov 23 at 2015 8:10 PM

MSG Mark Redmann — Mon, 23 Nov 2015 20:10:23 -0500

It's in the AR 670-1. Anytime the attachments don't fit on the ribbon. 4 attachments may be placed on the ribbon. 4 oak leaf clusters. The 5th award would have 4 of those. A silver oak leaf cluster would take the place of 5 bronze oak leaf clusters and would be the 6th award. You can put 3 more bronze for the 9th award. A second ribbon may be added for the 10th award. You can even have an oak leaf cluster out two on the 2nd ribbon. But it all stops at award 21. At that point you would have 4 silver oak leaf clusters on the ribbon. Well actually it doesn't say anything about a limit other than the one additional ribbon. Regardless,it's rare to have to wear a second ribbon as a10th award, let alone more.

Response by MSgt Bruce Hutchinson made Nov 23 at 2015 10:31 PM

MSgt Bruce Hutchinson — Mon, 23 Nov 2015 22:31:50 -0500

Actually I'm authorized to wear the AF Outstanding Unit Award like that. Each of my Active duty squadrons were awarded it once and my reserve unit was awarded it 3 times. Plus I can wear the V for Valor (I was assigned to three very fine units) As you see That would be too many devices, when this happens you are authorized to wear the ribbon twice.

Response by SGT Steven Shumaker made Nov 24 at 2015 3:51 AM

SGT Steven Shumaker — Tue, 24 Nov 2015 03:51:19 -0500

I have a good friend who has more than 10 Air Medals. That award does not use oak leaf clusters, rather numerals, with the max per ribbon being 9(including the ribbon =10) He wears 2 air medal ribbons for that reason. I only have 4, so it isn't a problem for me.

Response by TSgt Manuel Perez made Nov 24 at 2015 6:55 AM

TSgt Manuel Perez — Tue, 24 Nov 2015 06:55:24 -0500

I wore two outstanding unit awards with a V-valor device and 3 clusters and the other ribbon for the fourth cluster was awarded

Response by MSgt Donald Biddle made Nov 24 at 2015 5:22 PM

MSgt Donald Biddle — Tue, 24 Nov 2015 17:22:50 -0500

I have one that I'm authorized two of the same ribbon. I have the two Air Force Organizational Excellence Award ribbons on my rack. One with a silver oak leaf, two bronze oak leafs, and a V for valor. The second one has nothing on it. I was awarded nine of them however, because of the V device I was not able to put the third bronze oak leaf on the ribbin hence the authorization to wear the second one.

Response by SFC Robert White made Nov 24 at 2015 6:53 PM

SFC Robert White — Tue, 24 Nov 2015 18:53:07 -0500

22–11. Appurtenances
Appurtenances are devices affixed to service or suspension ribbons, or worn in lieu of medals or ribbons. They are
worn to denote an additional award, participation in a specific event, or some other distinguishing characteristic of an
award. The following appurtenances are authorized for wear on decorations, medals, ribbons and other awards, when
authorized by appropriate authority. See DA Pam 670–1 for descriptions and directions for placement of each
appurtenance. See AR 600–8–22 for additional information on authority to wear a particular appurtenance.
a. Oak leaf clusters. Bronze oak leaf clusters are worn to denote award of second and succeeding awards of
decorations (other than the Air Medal), the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, and unit awards. A silver
oak leaf cluster is worn in lieu of five bronze oak leaf clusters. If the number of authorized oak leaf clusters exceeds
four and will not fit on a single ribbon, a second ribbon is authorized for wear. See DA Pam 670–1 for specific.

and this is why learning regulations was so important in PLDC

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2015 6:32 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Nov 2015 06:32:15 -0500

That is pretty impressive 10 AAMs. He was a young stud.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2015 7:30 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Nov 2015 07:30:35 -0500

I currently have 6 AAMs and a couple of them were downgraded ARCOMs. (want to see a can of worms open up?) I think it is because no one really wants the hassle of sending an award up to the next level like they are so ready to do with UCMJ.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2015 8:14 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Nov 2015 08:14:12 -0500

I don't think it's inflated merely he has done a lot in the Army that got him AAM's. They are the easiest to be awarded.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2015 11:53 AM

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Nov 2015 11:53:10 -0500

It is when you have 10 or more of the same award.

Response by MSgt Christopher Schoen made Nov 25 at 2015 8:00 PM

MSgt Christopher Schoen — Wed, 25 Nov 2015 20:00:52 -0500

It happens. It happened to me about 3/4 through my career with the AFOUA. vMPF spat out my ribbon rack and it displayed two ribbons. Only had to deal with explaining that for about a year. Wasn't my fault. Dun retired now for over 3 years. And happy I don't have to deal with all the BS political correct crap you guys are going through.

Response by PO2 Richard Scarborough made Nov 26 at 2015 12:23 AM

PO2 Richard Scarborough — Thu, 26 Nov 2015 00:23:55 -0500

When your awarded the GCM from each of the three services you were in. So in this case
It was 3 ribbons not 2.

Response by 1SG John Aaron made Nov 27 at 2015 10:38 PM

1SG John Aaron — Fri, 27 Nov 2015 22:38:34 -0500

I have to do it, I have 14 AAMs. So to wear the award correctly I have to have two silver OLCs, two bronze OLCs and two ribbons.

Response by TSgt Michael P Reed made Nov 28 at 2015 8:36 AM

TSgt Michael P Reed — Sat, 28 Nov 2015 08:36:39 -0500

In the Air Force you earn the original ribbon or medal. after that each award in a bronze device. when you reach 5 bronze devices, they turn into a silver device. If you could possible earn 5 silvers then you wouls put a second ribbon on your blouse.

Response by SSG Mark Newman made Nov 28 at 2015 8:52 AM

SSG Mark Newman — Sat, 28 Nov 2015 08:52:59 -0500

I retired with 25 years. My take on this is this guy is a joke! Knowing that some of those awards are given just because shows me he is full of himself! I only displayed the awards that really means something. I can not stand leaders that have 500 ribbons. My father retired with 42yrs. Longest serving senior enlisted advisor up until his retirement never displayed all his awords. I think it's tacky.

Response by SFC Norman G. Mayers made Nov 28 at 2015 2:35 PM

SFC Norman G. Mayers — Sat, 28 Nov 2015 14:35:21 -0500

That is so wrong at many scales

Response by SGT Matthew Mahramus made Nov 28 at 2015 6:21 PM

SGT Matthew Mahramus — Sat, 28 Nov 2015 18:21:28 -0500

Purple Heart? You can wear

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 28 at 2015 10:06 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Nov 2015 22:06:34 -0500

If you have multiple awards and 1 gets a gold border, you need a second for the count. I.e. 1 with gold border followed by the same with 2 OLCs and no border

Response by 1SG Chuck Kuhlman made Nov 28 at 2015 11:16 PM

1SG Chuck Kuhlman — Sat, 28 Nov 2015 23:16:17 -0500

Just because you don't know every regulation doesn't mean you should get butt hurt. Drive on Soldier sissy's 1SG K

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2016 5:11 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 28 Jan 2016 17:11:58 -0500

Lol yep that is authorized, I've seen it only with AAM's though probably because they come a dime a dozen. Good try at calling the SMA out on social media. Good luck on SFC selection.

Response by SFC Michael-Pam Archey made Aug 26 at 2016 5:46 PM

SFC Michael-Pam Archey — Fri, 26 Aug 2016 17:46:22 -0400

I was awarded the Bronze Star for one action and a Bronze Star with "V" Device for another action. Am I authorized to wear both?

Response by COL John Hudson made Aug 30 at 2016 10:59 AM

COL John Hudson — Tue, 30 Aug 2016 10:59:58 -0400

Have to admit, this is a new one on me. I've always understood one 'can not' wear two of the same as devices (bronze and silver stars, etc) properly denote additional awards. However, I'm also aware that policy and regulation changes do take place to address different roles during conflicts. In Vietnam, the combat air medal was awarded to pilots (I flew slicks and guns)...25 combat flight hours = one air medal and 50 hours of combat resupply earned another (1st Avn Bde A&D policy). I flew 1,955 combat hours during my two tours there, and wear ONE air medal ribbon with the number "54" on it (computed by Opns personnel due to my particular flight record achievement). Seems to me the "number" idea should still be relevant for awards today. But we do have both bronze (one additional) and silver (five additional) stars/devices - so can't understand why anyone would have so many of a particular ribbon that the bronze and silver devices wouldn't properly address this?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2016 7:40 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 30 Aug 2016 19:40:45 -0400

Nine is the max as the original award ribbon starts of as one(Total Ten). I have 16 AAM's and never added an additional ribbon because I don't feel that my 12 ARCOMS mean anything more than doing what I was supposed to be doing. Out of Uniform maybe, but I didn't join the military to get awards!!! I did it because I felt it was the right thing to do and as a retired SSG I just have one question? Do you think that the soldiers that never came home, and that the loved ones really care about how many medals they had or where to put them on a uniform. AR-670- who ever wants to put their name behind it. We, the ones who are still here and retired are not the "HEROS" and don't deserve anything except maybe a thank you for you service to defend the freedom of this nation we promised to defend. The rest of you just go to the closest AAFES and buy yourself a Legion of Merit!!!

Response by SFC Arthur Smith made Aug 31 at 2016 6:47 AM

SFC Arthur Smith — Wed, 31 Aug 2016 06:47:26 -0400

During my 26years of military service I was awarded 2 MSMs, 6 ARCOMs, 15 AAMs among other awards. You were then authorized to wear teo of the same ribbon only after receiving 81. Ribbon + bronze oak leaf =2, ribbon + silver oak leaf = 6, ribbon + gold oak leaf = 21, ribbon + four gold oak leaf =81. Haven't read recent 670-1. I have been retired for 15 years. Also received third MSM one month after retirement.

Response by CW3 Jim Lance made Aug 31 at 2016 12:13 PM

CW3 Jim Lance — Wed, 31 Aug 2016 12:13:20 -0400

And then one day, long after you've ETS'd, retired, or otherwise separated your chosen service branch, you realize there is so much more important stuff to worry about. For me it's grandkids and fishing. Just saying! Be glad you no longer shine your boots.

Response by MAJ Alvin B. made Nov 3 at 2016 6:24 PM

MAJ Alvin B. — Thu, 03 Nov 2016 18:24:05 -0400

When the number of awards you have exceeds the maximum authorized number of attachments (e.g. stars, oak leaf clusters [typically a max of four (4)] cannot fit on a single ribbon, you are permitted to wear a second ribbon.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2017 6:46 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 18:46:44 -0500

I wear 2 AAM ribbons because I have been awarded 10. I can post a picture of my ASUs if anybody cares.

You can only have 4 oak leafs on a ribbon hence the need to split if your rack has to be up to date.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2017 3:16 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 15:16:24 -0500

You should not be able to wear two ribbons of the same award. That's why we have Bronze, Silver oak clusters and a long time ago we did have a gold oak leaf cluster that denoted 10 or 12 awards of the same medal. To me we should return to this practice where all medals are concerned except the MOH.

Response by SSgt Michael Cox made Feb 23 at 2017 6:06 PM

SSgt Michael Cox — Thu, 23 Feb 2017 18:06:06 -0500

Because of the amount of devices allowed on a ribbon I have two Outstanding Unit Awards because I have my V for Valor on my primary I can't put all the clusters on.

Response by SPC Greg Burnett made Feb 23 at 2017 11:49 PM

SPC Greg Burnett — Thu, 23 Feb 2017 23:49:08 -0500

This'll probably get me in trouble, but I think Bronze Stars without V and with V should be worn separately. That way people can tell if it is a real award for valor or just the senior NCO and officer career builder it seems to have become.
Yep, I said it.

Response by SSG Ray Murphy made Feb 24 at 2017 9:14 AM

SSG Ray Murphy — Fri, 24 Feb 2017 09:14:50 -0500

Not gonna lie. Did NOT know this....I really did learn something today. Won't be of any use to me, but gosh darn it, I will take it to my grave I am sure.

Response by SCPO Mark Jenkins made Feb 24 at 2017 2:10 PM

SCPO Mark Jenkins — Fri, 24 Feb 2017 14:10:04 -0500

I cant speak to the Army Regs but I know for the Navy there are successive levels depending on the award such as Oak Leafs, Wreaths, Bronze, Silver, & Gold stars to denote 5th, 6th. 10th etc.. and not necessarily in that order. Depends on the Decoration, Medal, or Ribbon.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2017 9:05 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 09:05:41 -0400

The question I have is can you wear a silver oak leaf with a bronze oak leaf on same ribbon? I have not been able to find anything in the regs on this question. I have been told by a 1st SGT you cant wear silver and bronze oak leaf together on one ribbon. So I have been awarded the AAM 8 times just trying to figure out how to properly wear them.

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Aug 25 at 2017 1:20 PM

SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 13:20:49 -0400

When I took my first MSG promotion photo I wore 2 AAM ribbons and even address a letter to the board outlining this because it is not common in most DA PHOTOs and I was told by my CSM that my DA PHOTO was wrong because, I was not selected and had to be counseled by him and he told me, I was wearing the wrong ribbons for the board. GO FINGURE! I guess its who you know on the board. I'll never know cause I no longer wear two of them or none of them. :( Why you all want to pick on the SMA?

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Aug 25 at 2017 4:26 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 16:26:10 -0400

More ribbons, Badges, and medals. I we did away with them would you quit

Response by SSG Shawn Ireland made Nov 26 at 2017 9:03 PM

SSG Shawn Ireland — Sun, 26 Nov 2017 21:03:45 -0500

You must have maxed out the amount of Award attachments and therefore another ribbon and or Medal is authorized to show the proper amount of the same award number that you have earned/ been awarded.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 3 at 2018 12:33 PM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 12:33:28 -0400

What if one of three AAMs have a V-device? Do I break them up to show the v-device on one.

Response by CPL Ronnie Nelson made Aug 3 at 2018 12:59 PM

CPL Ronnie Nelson — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 12:59:54 -0400

I too only seen this once on my drill sergeants dress uniform

Response by SFC Dale Karr made Aug 3 at 2018 6:56 PM

SFC Dale Karr — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 18:56:04 -0400

I have 4 AAM'S and 1 MSM. Wasn't awarded an ARCOM until I retired.

Response by Sgt Keith Anderson made Aug 3 at 2018 7:48 PM

Sgt Keith Anderson — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 19:48:40 -0400

It’s usually a cluster added to the one ribbon

Response by SFC Timothy Murphy made Aug 3 at 2018 8:07 PM

SFC Timothy Murphy — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 20:07:34 -0400

How do you wear a bronze star for valor and a bronze star for meritorious service

Response by SSG Joshua Dery made Aug 3 at 2018 8:25 PM

SSG Joshua Dery — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 20:25:59 -0400

I was authorized to wear two of the same ribbon. It’s because of a loophole (weirdness?) in AR 670-1 that doesn’t cover the tenth award of any oak-leaf based medal set. And yeah, I had ten AAMs, too.

Response by SPC William Smith made Aug 3 at 2018 9:54 PM

SPC William Smith — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 21:54:50 -0400

I thought they just put an oak leaf cluster on one ribbon.

Response by SGT Richard Crampton made Aug 3 at 2018 10:06 PM

SGT Richard Crampton — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 22:06:48 -0400

Well, I went thru Air Mobile School at Ft. Campbell in 1974 and got that badge, I wore it for 10 years.
Then I went back to Ft. Campbell in 1984 and went to Air Assault School and got another!
Both are listed seperately on my DD-214!

Response by SSG Sidney Dale Barnes made Aug 3 at 2018 10:51 PM

SSG Sidney Dale Barnes — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 22:51:34 -0400

Thank you for that answer. I have never seen myself.

Response by Sgt Don Barron made Aug 4 at 2018 2:43 PM

Sgt Don Barron — Sat, 04 Aug 2018 14:43:22 -0400

another AAM

Response by CCMSgt Keith Luck made Aug 4 at 2018 3:43 PM

CCMSgt Keith Luck — Sat, 04 Aug 2018 15:43:48 -0400

When you have received one for service and one for valor (Bronze Star). When you have receive 10 or 21 of the same .

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 4 at 2018 5:37 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Aug 2018 17:37:34 -0400

for example, if you have 10 AAM awards, AR/DA Pam 670-1 states you have one ribbon without oak leaves, and another ribbon with one silver and three bronze.

Response by SPC Dean Sprouse made Aug 4 at 2018 5:40 PM

SPC Dean Sprouse — Sat, 04 Aug 2018 17:40:30 -0400

Very good artical. Thank you for the information.

Response by LCpl Bill Mickelsen made Aug 4 at 2018 9:18 PM

LCpl Bill Mickelsen — Sat, 04 Aug 2018 21:18:21 -0400

I never had that ribbon

Response by Sherry Bailey made Aug 4 at 2018 11:32 PM

Sherry Bailey — Sat, 04 Aug 2018 23:32:57 -0400

Don’t know!!’

Response by 1stSgt Ron Pander Sr made Aug 5 at 2018 7:15 AM

1stSgt Ron Pander Sr — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 07:15:04 -0400

I don't know but would guess you can only have so many campaign stars if you exceed those you may need another ribbon just a guess tell me

Response by SP5 Larry Isaacs made Aug 5 at 2018 8:14 AM

SP5 Larry Isaacs — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 08:14:39 -0400

I was in The ARMY for Only 2 Yrs. & 4 Months & went From (BASIC & A.I.T), then Directly in COMBAT & Don't REMEMBER The AAM?!
Please, ENLIGHTEN Me & what Is IT For? Formerly Sgt.

Response by SFC War Mobley made Aug 5 at 2018 8:24 AM

SFC War Mobley — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 08:24:48 -0400

Well as we can see my brothers and sisters how again the military.. well should I say the Army and individuals are yet again making there own regulations. AR-670-1 states it all! I’ve served for 25 years and with all the uniform changes... I’m here to tell you they are confused now! Chief explained the wear of the ribbons! They need to stop becoming PX soldiers and be real soldiers well deserving of those achievements.

Response by MGySgt Shelby Steele made Aug 5 at 2018 11:06 AM

MGySgt Shelby Steele — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 11:06:08 -0400

I don't! never heard of it.

Response by MSgt Kenny Dombrosky made Aug 5 at 2018 8:01 PM

MSgt Kenny Dombrosky — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 20:01:14 -0400

When you have been awarded the same ribbon so many times that you can’t continue to put subsequent award devices on the first ribbon

Response by PFC Mike Taft made Aug 5 at 2018 9:42 PM

PFC Mike Taft — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 21:42:08 -0400

Response by PO1 Frank Biggs made Aug 6 at 2018 1:24 AM

PO1 Frank Biggs — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 01:24:10 -0400

Interesting! Why would you want to? FRB

Response by CPT William Wells made Aug 6 at 2018 10:06 AM

CPT William Wells — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 10:06:28 -0400

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2018 10:24 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 22:24:34 -0400

I have 2 arcoms on my uniform. One with a C device and 3 bronze oak leaves and one just regular which will be 5 awards. Once i get my 6th award, it will go back to one award with a silver olc

Response by SP5 Jerome Einspahr made Aug 7 at 2018 1:56 PM

SP5 Jerome Einspahr — Tue, 07 Aug 2018 13:56:19 -0400

I have currently the same problem then...I have tried to use rack builder to do my AAM. Nine awards for service and two mobilization awards.

Response by LtCol William Tehan made Aug 8 at 2018 12:04 PM

LtCol William Tehan — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 12:04:56 -0400

Yes. The Viet Namese Presidential Unit Citation is the Viet Namese Cross of Gallantry Ribbon with a gold laurel leaf frame and a bronze leaf device. The Viet Namese Cross of Gallantry, a personal award, uses the same ribbon but with no frame and a silver, or gold star or a bronze or gold leaf device to indicate what level (regiment, division, corps or army) made the award. Both these awards were commonly awarded to U.S. units and personnel. I wore both on my Marine uniform since 1968, in accordance with the Navy/Marine Corps Awards Manual.
Unit awards using a personal decoration ribbon but with frame and the use of different devices to indicate the level of award is common in France and its former colonies. Of note the Viet Namese Cross of Gallantry ribbon is a clone of the French Quoix de Guerrero ribbon.

Response by PO1 Rod Balch made Aug 13 at 2018 4:48 AM

PO1 Rod Balch — Mon, 13 Aug 2018 04:48:48 -0400

Thanks for the add in. Looks like a good s ite to gleen lots of good info

Response by Cpl Philip Walker made Aug 14 at 2018 11:53 AM

Cpl Philip Walker — Tue, 14 Aug 2018 11:53:11 -0400

I have a personal question? I am a US Marine Corps Veteran, I served in Combat with the 4th Marines in Vietnam 65/66, at that time I understand that no Combat Action Ribbon was issued, at some point the Corps authorized the ribbon!! Are all Combat Marines entitled to have it?

Response by SSG Charles Grubbs made Aug 18 at 2018 10:34 PM

SSG Charles Grubbs — Sat, 18 Aug 2018 22:34:20 -0400

I never came across that . But to me , he should have 1 ribbon with appropriate clusters that add to his awards .

Response by SMSgt Harry Wheeler made Aug 21 at 2018 1:32 AM

SMSgt Harry Wheeler — Tue, 21 Aug 2018 01:32:05 -0400

Generally: ;For instance, I earned the National Defense Medal three (3) times during my career.
1st. Viet Nam 1965-1968 USN/2nd. Desert Shield Desert Storm 1991/3rd.Enduring Freedom 2001 NVANG (1979-2005) CCAF/Senior Enlisted Advisor- E-8/SMSGT
only one (1) ribbon, but, 2 devices: showing 3 times awarded:
I have not seen 2 of the same ribbons worn at same time, on any Class A uniform.

Response by PO1 Jeff Ford made Aug 21 at 2018 9:20 AM

PO1 Jeff Ford — Tue, 21 Aug 2018 09:20:18 -0400

A relative of mine was an Army Officer who spent 3- tours in Vietnam once told me that medals and ribbons were for the enlisted, not the officer corps. Never cared much for him.

Response by 1SG Doug Flach made Aug 22 at 2018 9:39 PM

1SG Doug Flach — Wed, 22 Aug 2018 21:39:26 -0400

Is one with Valor? Did they have 26 of the same award? Forgive my math possibly

Response by CPL Donnie Starnes made Aug 22 at 2018 9:42 PM

CPL Donnie Starnes — Wed, 22 Aug 2018 21:42:13 -0400

Thanks ! I never knew that !

Response by SGT Russ Hadfield made Aug 23 at 2018 11:34 AM

SGT Russ Hadfield — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 11:34:16 -0400

2nd award

Response by PO3 Hugh Jones made Aug 23 at 2018 1:53 PM

PO3 Hugh Jones — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 13:53:56 -0400

Response by GySgt Andrew DeVries made Aug 23 at 2018 1:54 PM

GySgt Andrew DeVries — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 13:54:48 -0400

Not I

Response by PO2 Katie Benson made Aug 23 at 2018 2:20 PM

PO2 Katie Benson — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 14:20:10 -0400

You earn it you wear it....

Response by SP5 Daniel Osolin made Aug 23 at 2018 2:34 PM

SP5 Daniel Osolin — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 14:34:19 -0400

Don’t know

Response by CPL Wallace Whitehead made Aug 23 at 2018 10:26 PM

CPL Wallace Whitehead — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 22:26:47 -0400

True Hero

Response by SFC Leland J. Rust made Aug 24 at 2018 6:22 PM

SFC Leland J. Rust — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 18:22:42 -0400

Y’all are on it, thanks

Response by SFC Gerald Gleason made Aug 24 at 2018 7:20 PM

SFC Gerald Gleason — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 19:20:18 -0400

Just read AR 670-1.

Response by Sgt Walter Huhtala made Aug 24 at 2018 8:58 PM

Sgt Walter Huhtala — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 20:58:25 -0400

I got out in 1964 and don't remember anything about ribbons.

Response by SPC Stan Mannell made Aug 26 at 2018 10:00 AM

SPC Stan Mannell — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 10:00:49 -0400

Response by SSG Jacques Robitaille made Aug 26 at 2018 2:07 PM

SSG Jacques Robitaille — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 14:07:00 -0400

It's because it's his 10th award. There's a four device limit on any ribbon. Once he receives another AAM he'll be able to switch back to one ribbon...

Response by MSgt Terry Southern made Aug 26 at 2018 3:12 PM

MSgt Terry Southern — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 15:12:20 -0400

Have to admit, the Army sure loves its awards. Aww but nothing but love to you guys . . . .LOL

Response by LCpl Raymond Silvis made Aug 26 at 2018 7:33 PM

LCpl Raymond Silvis — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 19:33:07 -0400

i'm not

Response by PO1 Roger Murzynowski made Aug 27 at 2018 4:11 PM

PO1 Roger Murzynowski — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 16:11:39 -0400

Don't they have a star to signify that it is the second ribbon?

Response by SSG Larry Hatfield made Aug 27 at 2018 10:49 PM

SSG Larry Hatfield — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 22:49:13 -0400

Response by Maj Richard ("Dick") Cole made Aug 29 at 2018 11:22 PM

Maj Richard ("Dick") Cole — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 23:22:43 -0400

It was common among combat pilots in the Air Force during Vietnam. There were several pilots awarded more than 20 Air Medals. If you got more than 20, one ribbon could only hold four silver oak leaf clusters and they had to wear another ribbon for those above 20.

Response by CPT Charles Hardin made Sep 25 at 2018 4:57 PM

CPT Charles Hardin — Tue, 25 Sep 2018 16:57:00 -0400

Can have 21 awards on a AAM 4 silver OLC + ribbon = 21 awards. It would seem to display 10 would require two ribbons. But when he gets #11, back to 1 ribbon + 2 silver OLC.

Response by SrA John Monette made Sep 28 at 2018 8:46 PM

SrA John Monette — Fri, 28 Sep 2018 20:46:45 -0400

NEVER!!!!!!! if one isn't good enough for you, suck it up!!!!!

Response by SGT George Duncan made Oct 19 at 2018 4:03 PM

SGT George Duncan — Fri, 19 Oct 2018 16:03:48 -0400

it's not their job

Response by SSG David Palomarez made Oct 20 at 2018 8:38 PM

SSG David Palomarez — Sat, 20 Oct 2018 20:38:55 -0400

I have seen if they have had a V device on an ARCOM. And more the one ARCOM

Response by SFC Popz Beckwith made Oct 21 at 2018 11:17 AM

SFC Popz Beckwith — Sun, 21 Oct 2018 11:17:48 -0400

Never

Response by SFC Bill Snyder made Nov 23 at 2018 3:41 PM

SFC Bill Snyder — Fri, 23 Nov 2018 15:41:55 -0500

Do like the Good Conduct Medal - Loops. Id look funny wearing 8 GCMs

Response by SSG Dan Cornwall made Aug 9 at 2019 8:30 AM

SSG Dan Cornwall — Fri, 09 Aug 2019 08:30:49 -0400

So I have 7 AAM's what do I wear, I was told a silver and two bronze OLC.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 10 at 2019 10:21 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Aug 2019 10:21:18 -0400

I did for 3 years, Ribbons can only have four devices and during my time I had a ribbon that would have req. More, so I was able to wear two of the same ribbon. Lol. You would have to be in 30 years to duplicate this

Response by CWO4 Tim Hecht made Aug 10 at 2019 10:48 AM

CWO4 Tim Hecht — Sat, 10 Aug 2019 10:48:52 -0400

In the Coast Guard we used bronze stars at the 6th award it’s a silver star and the ribbon, then each award is a bronze star. Never a second ribbon. Sounds like the oak leaf device is too big!

Response by SSG Kenneth Ponder made Aug 10 at 2019 12:34 PM

SSG Kenneth Ponder — Sat, 10 Aug 2019 12:34:23 -0400

I got 5 Arcom's & 5 AAM's. They're the most worthless AWD's, needs to be eliminated along with ASR,OSR,NPDR nothing but attendence, participation and for just doing your job. All but combat awds should be done away with.
And only 2 badges should be worn on uniform.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 10 at 2019 2:33 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Aug 2019 14:33:23 -0400

Now with the “c” device you might have two of the same ribbon

Response by SFC Bill Snyder made Nov 1 at 2019 1:48 PM

SFC Bill Snyder — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 13:48:59 -0400

OK, i've been out for sometime but a I remember it it was 1 oak leaf for the 2d and subsequent awards up to 4 oak leaves. The net one was a Silver Oak Leaf for the 6th award and so on and s forth. . So, theoretically, it you keep getting awarded the same Medal over and over you have 4 Silver Oak Leave you would have been awarded that medal 24 times. So, why were two of the same. How many of us have ever been awarded the same Decoration 25 times?

Response by MAJ Haris Balcinovic made Nov 1 at 2019 2:35 PM

MAJ Haris Balcinovic — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 14:35:16 -0400

All the regs and requirements answered properly I'd like to add a personal note. At what point is this a leadership issue. Every time DA 638 is filled out you have to include previous awards. Perhaps someone could have noticed that and said maybe it's time for an upgrade for this troop and give him and ARCOM

Response by SPC Antonio Zavala made Nov 2 at 2019 7:58 AM

SPC Antonio Zavala — Sat, 02 Nov 2019 07:58:31 -0400

There was a few guys in my unit that had an ARCOM with a V, and next to it a regular ARCOM.

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Sep 30 at 2021 6:47 PM

Cpl Christopher Bishop — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 18:47:34 -0400

I will just take a guess that upon earning the number of awards -1 (lets say Acheivement Medals) the next one may just get upgraded to a Commendation Medal in cases where most/all awarded for the same thing, like “that one guy” winning “Unit SM of the Quarter” repeatively. Id think maybe a Comm would not just be for the 11th win, but kind of an acknowledgement of the whole collection of previous Achievement awards. In such a case it would not only be a nice gesture, but it would also silently prevent the need for the +1 Achievement version.

Response by CPL James Barnstead made Oct 1 at 2021 5:13 AM

CPL James Barnstead — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 05:13:41 -0400

I have five Arcoms one with V device. Because of this I’m supposes to wear two, but instead I forgo the V and have the four oak leaves.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Apr 18 at 2022 7:26 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 07:26:58 -0400

While I cannot denote exactly why the SMA received that award from his previous assignment, I can attest to his drive, motivation, diligence, professionalism, care of Soldiers and Family members. He absolutely leads from the front, he leaves no doubt of his presence when in a room. If he is wearing an award, he earned it.

Response by SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM made Sep 23 at 2022 6:21 PM

SFC David Reid, M.S, PHR, SHRM-CP, DTM — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 18:21:15 -0400

Very Interesting!

Response by SSgt Michael Bowen made Nov 19 at 2022 6:07 PM

SSgt Michael Bowen — Sat, 19 Nov 2022 18:07:59 -0500

When it's being pined on you after that you add a device to indicate two or more .