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

CSM (Join to see) - Why would a soldier buy two different racks, when he could continue to use the previous rack that they possessed and use the new one for the DA photo?
And what about the spirit of the directive in paragraph 22-2, Chapter 22, AR 670-1? Or think about it this way; Wearing the two ribbons for the DA Photo is mandatory IAW regulations, where on other occasions, unless mandated (and in this case usually directly mandated), it is at the discretion of the service member.

You're reading too deeply SSG W.....at some point the previous writer bought a rack (bought rack # 1 for say XX ribbons). If he was awarded a 10th of anything...he's stuck with either not having it put on his records (since he previously declared it "a bit ridiculous" and said he'd "just wear the one") ..... or if he had it in his records, he'd be required to wear it for a DA photo. (hence bought rack #2 for XX + 1). Hence my comment about "having" two racks (I believe you took it literally as if in the end he'd have purchased three)

If he didn't wear it someone would be busting his ? About not wearing it, lol. Damned if you do and .......

So, would that include leaving it off for your official photo, or for a promotion board?

I know it does but I still don't understand it. The list of awards and ribbons are there along with the paperwork when a board is looking at your DA photo. It is important to be correct in accordance with AR 670-1. In AR 670-1 22-2 says, "b. Unless directed by a commander per paragraph 22–2(a), authorized awards are worn at the option of the wearer, when not prohibited, during normal duty hours. Personnel also may wear authorized awards on appropriate uniforms when off duty. Personnel are encouraged to wear authorized awards on the service, dress, and mess uniforms." Encouraged by not required. DA PAM 670-1 and AR 600-8-22 make no mention of mandatory wear of everything Not saying don't wear it but I wouldn't gig a guy because he isn't wearing, say, an Overseas Training Ribbon. That is what I had to buy a new rack for, for my DA photo.

Crap. Didn't look at AR 640-30. 7a "(3) Wear basic branch insignia, all permanently authorized awards, decorations, combat and special skill badges and tabs. If affiliated, regimental insignia will be worn. The shoulder sleeve insignia (patch) and distinctive unit insignia (crests) will be worn and are the only exceptions from the permanent rule."

So, would that include leaving it off for your official photo, or for a promotion board?

AR 640-30, what I quoted above, says you will wear all authorized awards.
If I was sitting on a board I wouldn't ding someone for not wearing all authorized ribbons, awards etc. I might ask a question after looking at the SRB/ERB/2-1 and seeing something missing if it looks interesting. Nothing else I have seen published requires you to wear everything. Just like wearing a CSIB, CIB, EIB, and badges are up to the wearer.

The Southwest Asia Setice Medal was awarded for the entire period of the Persian Gulf War, not just Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Included below,are several links from, The Institute of Heraldry, the Govt Printing Office, USAF and USN. The full time frame includes three campaigns: Desert Shield, Desert Storm and the Cease Fire (unofficially Desert Calm

http://www.tioh.hqda.pentagon.mil/Catalog/Heraldry.aspx?HeraldryId=15308&CategoryId=4&grp=4&menu=Decorations%20and%20Medals&ps=24&p=0

http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2008-title32-vol3/xml/CFR-2008-title32-vol3-sec578-27.xml

http://www.afpc.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=7808

https://awards.navy.mil/awards/webapp01.nsf/(vwAwardsDisp)/AW-10052085N3LN?OpenDocument

Ok, so given the bio (states "2 bronze service stars"), the photo, and thanks to MAJ Bedgood, the above references (I tend to go with the AR, but each actually cites the AR), what's the verdict? He participated in 2 of the 3 campaigns, Desert Shield & Desert Storm. How many bronze stars are worn on the ribbon?

on the SWASM they are actually bronze campaign stars, not service stars. The basic ribbon covers service in the AOR, the stars denote participation in one or more of the three campaigns conducted during the war.

Re usage of "bronze service stars," I was merely citing from the bio. 2 stars should be worn on the ribbon in question; one for Desert Shield and one for Desert Storm.

Also, there is no time frame for the award that is not covered by one of the 3 campaigns so (IAW 2-14e) the ribbon would never be worn alone but will always have at least one bronze campaign star.

The problem would come with the 10th Award, since you can only wear four devices (one silver and four bronze oak leaf clusters + ribbon= 10 awards but five devices). Not a problem if you get an 11th (two silver oak leaf clusters)

No disrespect SFC (Join to see) but that post you just made is unprofessional as hell. I see why they are trimming the army down to get people like you out. You're a disgrace to your unit and the army.

I honestly hope this gets back to his CoC. Your conduct in this post is disgraceful. Learn how to conduct yourself on social media SFC Weeks. I know the Navy has one and I'm reasonable certain the Army has a regulation regarding proper use of Social media as well. Perhaps you should peruse those regulations yourself.

Both SFC Weeks and SPC Voye have crossed the line here. We can do better than this, people.

Agreed SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4" and 1SG (Join to see). YES we can and SHOULD do better people!