Which award are you most proud of and why?

SFC Mark Merino — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 03:22:18 -0400

Including civilian accolades

Response by SSG Pete Fleming made Aug 15 at 2014 3:37 AM

SSG Pete Fleming — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 03:37:49 -0400

The birth certificate of my little girl! Outweighs all my other accomplishments and achievements (real or imagined).

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2014 3:45 AM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 03:45:11 -0400

Oddly, I am most proud of two awards I almost received. When I was at NAVCENT in early 2003 I got a NAVCOM for, in essence, being there. When I left in 9/2004 I had actually earned a COM but didn't receive it - that's the one I like to think I actually have. The other is being one of three finalists for the Nimitz Award at NIU - I didn't get it, but the judges indicated all three us had better theses than previous winners.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2014 6:20 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 06:20:18 -0400

On the military side, I'd have to say it was the day I was awarded four different command coins -- 2 from O-6 Commands, 1 from an O-8 Command, and one from an SES -- for the same project because of the scope of the impact it had.

On the civilian side, it's 1) Becoming a father, 2) #1 Redux, 3) Marriage

Response by SGT Richard H. made Aug 15 at 2014 10:44 AM

SGT Richard H. — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 10:44:31 -0400

This particular award was a "gimme" for everyone involved, but I think I would say that the one I'm most proud of is the Kuwait Liberation Medal. It signifies giving back an entire country to the population that it was forcibly taken from.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Aug 15 at 2014 10:50 AM

LTC Paul Labrador — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 10:50:21 -0400

My 3ACR combat patch and gold spurs. Not too many nurses around have those....

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Aug 15 at 2014 11:09 AM

Maj Chris Nelson — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 11:09:39 -0400

I have a few that mean the most.... Liberation of Kuwait (issued by Kuwait), Liberation of Kuwait (issued by Saudi Arabia), SW Asia Campain Medal (Desert Storm), Iraq Campain Medal, and Afghanistan Campain Medal. Also my Joint Comm Medal....Air Force, working in an Army Billet, Mentoring and teaching the Afghan Army.

On civilian side.....marriage license (still have my first and only!), and birth certificate for my daughter, now 13.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2014 2:20 PM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 14:20:23 -0400

My Air Force Aerial Achievement Medal. It was issued for my job as a Critical Care Air Transport Team (CCATT) during my second deployment. It was an honor to fly throughout Iraq and Afghanistan to pick up, and care for, critically injured troops.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2014 2:38 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 14:38:16 -0400

I have only received two awards during my time in the service but I would say I am most proud of my ARCOM. It may not be much as far as awards go but I think its quite rare for a PFC to be awarded one.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 15 at 2014 3:03 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 15:03:10 -0400

My 43d MP Bde combat SSI. First unit in the state to have its SSI as a combat patch. I served in the Bde for 18 years as 118th MP Bn & Bde S6 and HHD, 118th MP Bn detachment commander and was at Bde for its first 2 deployments to GTMO and Iraq. Lots of history to love here.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2014 3:38 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 15:38:07 -0400

The award I am most proud of would be my most recent. It's a COA from my units last FTX. The one who recognized me for it is someone I look up to very much, and it makes it that much better.

Response by SFC Michael Hartwig made Aug 15 at 2014 3:40 PM

SFC Michael Hartwig — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 15:40:22 -0400

Meritorious Mast from the USMC General Support Motor Transportation Company for providing Route Clearance and Intelligence to effectively bring them much needed supplies safely (to include real food and rip its). All while being an Army Reservist attached to the 2nd CEB, II MEF in Helmand Province 2011. Pretty high accolades even better than my BSM. The only one I display in my office.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Aug 15 at 2014 3:44 PM

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 15:44:30 -0400

My Masters Degree, it was as an accomplishment through adversity I had to overcome.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2014 4:17 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 16:17:19 -0400

PSB - It took allot of patience to rate it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2014 5:02 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 17:02:32 -0400

My high school diploma. I really didnt think I would graduate, I really didnt like the "school" part of school, but i loved the people there. lol

Response by SGT Frank Leonardo made Aug 15 at 2014 5:19 PM

SGT Frank Leonardo — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 17:19:15 -0400

In the Army my 2nd ARCOM was my favorite because I earned it during my deployment to Iraq. In civy life my Master ASE cert for heavy diesel.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2014 5:44 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 17:44:10 -0400

For military I would say the VOSM that I am getting next month because I have volunteer over 300 when I could have spend that time with my family. I wanted to show my peers that volunteer show that you care about your community and it not just a 9-5 to me. My civilian is my assiocate degree because I have a GED so to come from being a high school dropout and have a college degree show that people can redeem themselves and change.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2014 8:13 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 20:13:36 -0400

This is going to sound silly but I won a spelling bee when I was a kid. The reason it was a big deal for me was because I was still trying to learn English (I'm Albanian). So it was a big deal for me and my dad that I won lol. I know silly but I still remember the look on his face. Priceless.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 15 at 2014 9:00 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 21:00:22 -0400

This question is asked for us to celebrate our triumphs and remember our good times. It's not bragging if we just want to remember the good in our life. Keep them coming.........

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Aug 15 at 2014 9:53 PM

Cpl Dennis F. — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 21:53:38 -0400

Oooops....sure screw that pooch. Put it where it belongs.
My 2nd Blue Dragon brigade badge that I received from The ROK Marines I was attached to, while a tanker, in RVN. Even though it is some what unofficial, there are not too many of those!

Response by CPT Jacob Swartout made Aug 15 at 2014 9:54 PM

CPT Jacob Swartout — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 21:54:11 -0400

My Associates and Bachelors Degrees because it took some perseverance for me to achieve them around a busy schedule.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2014 11:47 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 23:47:49 -0400

This defines who you are and what you are made of. You don't just earn it or have it handed to you. You have to be hungry for it. Many try and fail. To the brothers that have stood there at the pond and had it pinned on there is no better feeling. For this I am most proud of.

RLTW!

Response by SSgt Jenna Welch made Aug 15 at 2014 11:52 PM

SSgt Jenna Welch — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 23:52:23 -0400

Military wise, my Air Force Commendation medal. 4.5 years of busting my ass to support a busy bomber group, paid off.

Civilian... Graduating nursing school with honors and kicking the NCLEX's ass. I almost dicked away my first bachelors degree, so growing up, overcoming my craptastic grades, and graduating with honors was an awesome achievement.

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Aug 16 at 2014 5:27 AM

PO1 Rick Serviss — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 05:27:06 -0400

My Sea Service Ribbon with silver and bronze start because it means that I pulled my weight and wasn't a slacker.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2014 12:05 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 12:05:33 -0400

Im proud of my humanitarian ribbon. Spent two weeks in Haiti in 2010 helping to supply water and food and fixing wells to the island of La Ganave (sp?) So those people could survive until the main island could start supporting them again. Im always proud of my three deployment ribbons. I feel it means we were out there in the Persian Gulf with a big target on us saying dont you dare we are ready to defend our country.

Response by SPC Stephen Bobchin made Aug 16 at 2014 12:10 PM

SPC Stephen Bobchin — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 12:10:23 -0400

My CMB. I don't think that needs any justification.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2014 12:29 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 12:29:52 -0400

Although no award but a great fulfilling accomplishment. I saved my best friends life in 29 Palms CA during our live fire exercise. We where setting up antennas on a hill for our radio nets. And he started suffering from heat stroke. I emptied his and my canteens on him and fireman carried him off the hill to the medic. Corpsman said if not for my actions he would have died. Other than that my Humanitarian Service Medal for Firestorm 94 in Eastern Washington.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2014 2:25 PM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 14:25:15 -0400

Mine would be my marriage license, and both of my kids birth certificates. On the civilian side.

Militarily though I would have to say it's the coin that I received from the USARSO CSM, for a brief that I gave him right before my first deployment.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2014 2:33 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 14:33:16 -0400

My first DD214 from the Air Force. Now that I am getting ready to retire my DD214 from the Army will be held in the same high regard!!

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 16 at 2014 3:16 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 15:16:09 -0400

Time for my own response.......
Apparently, I made SSG when we were out in the field at Fort Campbell doing helicopter gunnery. Instead of just surprising me with a set of orders, the commander and the gang presented me this. It was made using .032 lockwire, 4 sticks, camo netting.....and an MRE box. It is priceless to me.

Response by MSgt Keith Hebert made Aug 16 at 2014 5:34 PM

MSgt Keith Hebert — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 17:34:12 -0400

I would have to say my EGA

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 16 at 2014 5:50 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 17:50:37 -0400

Col Private RallyPoint Member DUSTOFF through the years.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2014 6:26 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 18:26:52 -0400

For me, I have to say it's not any award I was given, however, I have some momentos that I've kept since retiring that are priceless to me. I have a small collection of cards and letters from Soldiers when I was their First Sergeant that was given to me (later on) expressing appreciation for something that I had done for them along the way. Another is ever often for the phone to ring and its from a couple former Soldiers who I was either their Platoon Sergeant and/or First Sergeant when they were E3-4-5 and now they are 1SG, CSM, CPT etc. In fact I reconnected with one right here on RP, she is now a Captain. Don't get me wrong, I'm proud of every award I received, however, it's the things that you do or did for Soldiers and they come back many years later still talking about it. That's priceless!

Response by Capt Richard Desmond made Aug 16 at 2014 9:25 PM

Capt Richard Desmond — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 21:25:55 -0400

It wasn't an award but a simple accolade from my Lead Production Superintendent and Maintenance Superintendent when I was deployed as the Helicopter Maintenance Unit Officer in Charge of Pedro Rescue at Camp Bastion in the Southern Helmand Province ISO of OEF in the summer of '10. I tried my best to take care of my maintainers by putting them in for as many awards as possible and shielding them from BS/quip from the upper echelons of maintenance at Kandahar. Our unit supported 1,900+ combat sorties and saved 587 lives in a 5 month period, a record that still holds I believe in the HH-60G USAF community. But all that didn't matter compared to what MSgt Russel Smith told me at the end of tour. "Lt, you did us right this deployment. Thanks," and when SMSgt Keith Terry simpley stated, "You did a good job LT, thanks for being there for us."

Response by MAJ Raúl Rovira made Aug 17 at 2014 2:14 AM

MAJ Raúl Rovira — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 02:14:50 -0400

Eagle Scout Award. I was 16, our troop lost the adult leaders about a year before I made Eagle, I ended up picking up the role to keep the troop going. It was tough. 4 others in the patrol made it.

It is not about being proud of the award but more about what it represents: fun years with my friends, lots of learning and growing, the support of my parents, and that nothing is impossible.

Best of all, I will get to do it with my son.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 17 at 2014 6:56 AM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 06:56:02 -0400

I can now add this to my resume - RallyPoint Funniest Member Award

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2UUsIOk8qk&feature=youtu.be

BobPetrarcaAward

RallyPoint Funniest Member Award Acceptance Speech

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2014 7:06 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 07:06:31 -0400

I once received an impact Army Achievement Medal from the battalion commander for having the best fighting position in the battalion. It was an Engineer Battalion, so most of the unit had SEEs to assist them. Not me; I hand-dug that hole with mattock and e-tool for most of a day. A to-standard machine gun position with overhead cover, two helmets wide and two M-16s long, grenade sump, the whole nine yards.
For a personnel REMF in an Engineer unit, that was pretty heady wine to drink. I still have that one on the wall even though it was long ago and I've been recognized for many things since. That one was due to personal pride in doing my best to do a menial task, and to have the BC say in front of everyone they should walk by my foxhole to see what right looked like put a lot motivation in this (then) PFC.

Response by CW4 William Van Almsick made Aug 17 at 2014 10:24 AM

CW4 William Van Almsick — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 10:24:48 -0400

The Joint Meritorious Unit Citation for Joint Task Force -B, Honduras 1989 because it represents the total team effort.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Aug 17 at 2014 11:24 AM

Cpl Dennis F. — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 11:24:28 -0400

Civilian: My cheap medal/ribbon from Sediv ECR for winning the division IT7 class, Enduro Championship racing series in '09, when I was 60 in a 30 year old Mazda RX7. Going after it again this year. One race left in the season.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2014 12:40 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 12:40:38 -0400

For me it was my Master Jump Wings. It took me almost 7 years to get to Jumpmaster school and it was the most difficult school I had been through but had made it my challenge to beat. Then chasing jumps managed to get 40+ jumps in two years to rate before I left the unit. More than the fact of how few in service accomplish the task is how hard I had to work for years to get everything done.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 17 at 2014 9:19 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 21:19:28 -0400

Just a little humor to keep you motivated on the subject.....

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2014 9:42 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 21:42:55 -0400

I once got an award for best coloring in kindergarten.....

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made Aug 18 at 2014 11:52 AM

Cpl Glynis Sakowicz — Mon, 18 Aug 2014 11:52:39 -0400

The title of United States Marine.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Aug 18 at 2014 2:26 PM

Cpl Dennis F. — Mon, 18 Aug 2014 14:26:40 -0400

Crappy pic, but here is the 2nd Blue Dragon Brigade badge, ROKMC.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2014 3:12 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 Aug 2014 15:12:55 -0400

I would have to say probably my Audie Murphy and SGT Morales medallions. Hard to pick just one, they all mean something to me.

Response by SSG Hank Ortega made Aug 18 at 2014 6:17 PM

SSG Hank Ortega — Mon, 18 Aug 2014 18:17:50 -0400

Silver Star. Because it was written up by the men I served with, the men in the platoon with whom I shared the mud and the blood.

Response by SPC Tim O'Reilly made Aug 18 at 2014 8:01 PM

SPC Tim O'Reilly — Mon, 18 Aug 2014 20:01:25 -0400

My BSMV.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2014 12:17 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 00:17:46 -0400

Of my entire rack, these are the medals I am most proud of and the ones I wear on my ASU (DA Photo notwithstanding). Each one has a story worth telling and an accomplishment that makes me take a knee and reflect on.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2014 12:00 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 12:00:47 -0400

Wow, it's hard to break it down to just one.

I would say from my first life in the Air Force, I would go with my Air Force Achievement Medal, SWA Service Medal, and Liberation of Kuwait Medal, all directly related to ODS service, where we did good work and accomplished something.

Navy life, my first MOVSM as it was awarded for my being a volunteer firefighter and medic and responding to Ground Zero. I am also proud of my fist Navy Achievement Medal, even though I got it for (in my eyes) just doing my job, I saved the life of a Sailor during a FEX.

My proudest moment over all was when I received my Chief Petty Officer Anchors. I truly thought as a Second Class (E5) that i would be happy to make it to First Class (E6) and retire there. That moment was closely followed by me taking those very same anchors and pinning my protege when she made Chief. I will say passing along my Chief anchors even trumped me putting on Senior Chief

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2014 1:33 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 13:33:52 -0400

My basic aviation badge. I've been in and out of the military for the last 16 years. Half of that time I've spent in. I did a lot of things I didn't want to do and really didn't have a whole lot of interest in doing. I plugged away though. In 2012 I decided to give it one more shot with the condition that if I didn't get an aviation MOS that I wasn't doing it, but I got it so here I am, still plugging away. Most people will look at the wings and just see another pin on another Soldier's uniform, but for me it's a symbol of what hard work and persistence will get you. Now I'm trying to take that same focus that got me the wings and turn it to the same field in the civilian world.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2014 2:38 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 14:38:10 -0400

I would have to say that my second Army Achievement Medal and my first BN coin, AAM given by my company and coin given by the BN CO for the same accomplishment. I was a PFC at the time with only 1 year in the Army and was the only armorer to have a 100% Commendable security inspection for the 3rd time in a row in the whole Brigade. With no alternate armorer, and having to fix the Arms Room completely from organizing it, to fixing all the paperwork because the prior armorer had done a horrible job to say the least and never passed inspections on first time GO. Did all that without being 100% positive in myself, and always thinking that I was probably going to fail. Brand new PFC in the Army being in charge of over 1 million dollars in equipment, I was extremely nervous at first, but ended up proving to myself what I was capable of doing. At the end of my armorer duties I ended up with 3 AAM's, 2 BN coins from the LTC and 1 Brigade coin from the COL.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Aug 19 at 2014 8:04 PM

SSG Warren Swan — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 20:04:59 -0400

SFC, I'm not sure if any ribbon or medal type award could compete with the knowledge that upon completion of my deployment, ALL of those that I went with and supervised were able to come home to their loved ones. Years later that is something I can smile on and feel good about.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2014 8:10 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 20:10:30 -0400

For me it's a combination of my 101st ABN combat patch and CMB. They are tangible affirmations that I've done my job as a combat medic, and they represent precisely what I enlisted to accomplish. To deploy and render aid to the American warfighter.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2014 11:33 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 23:33:10 -0400

Easy: Eagle, Globe, and Anchor and the title, "Marine".

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2014 11:45 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 23:45:31 -0400

The award I'm most proud of was simply a letter from a deployed subordinate thanking me for what he felt where my contributions to a successful mission. It required no higher headquarters approval nor grammatical corrections. It was clearly from the gut. I consider it higher than any decoration I could receive. The approving authority is the one most impacted...a subordinate.

Response by SPC Elijah Benson made Aug 20 at 2014 6:56 AM

SPC Elijah Benson — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 06:56:19 -0400

I have a few I'm most proud of.

The first one would be the MOVSM for the years I spent teaching young men in Boy Scouts how to be productive members of society and to never give up hope.

The second one would be the Navy Expeditionary Medal because it was my first deployment and the most difficult of all of them. Regardless, I busted my tail off and learned alot in the process.

And finally the one I hold most "Near and Dear" to my heart would be my Enlisted Submarine Warfare Badge (Dolphins). It means more to me than anything the Army or Navy can ever give me. For those that don't know, to get your Dolphins, you must first go through all the required training first before getting to the boat. Then you must complete and Qualification card that is in 12 point font, 4 pages long, each line is a signature block, and after each section is a walk through where you explain how everything works in detail. At the end of the qual, you must do walk throughs again to ensure you know the information. After all the is complete, you go in front of a review board (normal 2 hours long) and explain everything from memory and answer a crap load of questions, draw diagrams of different systems, etc. After the board, the XO say yes or no, then the CO either approves it or has you relearn a certain part and go through the board again. All of this while completing 4-6 watchstation quals. It will take you on average 9 months to complete. Once you earn your Dolphins, you're part of a small brotherhood and we always have each others backs. That's why I am most proud of the Enlisted Submarine Warfare Badge (Dolphins). :-)

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2014 8:02 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 08:02:51 -0400

My two good conduct medals (Air Force and Army). As the Battalion and now Brigade Paralegal NCO I have thought to myself multiple times "Is today going to be the day I get my first assault charge?"

Response by CMSgt Ricky Keil made Aug 20 at 2014 11:26 AM

CMSgt Ricky Keil — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 11:26:12 -0400

My 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) combat patch. Even though I was Air Force, stationed at Ft Campbell, we could still wear the assigned Army unit's patch. I deployed with the 101st in 03-04 (again in 05-06) and was allowed, even encouraged by some of the Army personnel I deployed with, to wear the combat patch. I had to remove at my next duty station per AF Instruction, always felt strange after that not having it on my right sleeve.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2014 12:15 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 12:15:03 -0400

This is a great question. Now, in today's military awards don't mean much anymore. Getting an award today depends on how recommends you and what rank you are more than what the Warrior have achieved. Said that, I would have to say I appreciate the must is a dagger badge a dying young British Soldier gave me when we where recovering him from the battle field. As for US awards it would by first and only AAM in Nicaragua.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2014 10:23 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 22:23:49 -0400

Being that I just commissioned this past May into the Army I don't have a whole lot of awards to my name. However, I do have Airborne wings and I have to admit that earning those meant more to me than words can say. It may sound childish but since I saw the HBO series "Band of Brothers" and watched the men of the 101st jump and earn those wings it was something that I wanted to earn. Getting those wings pinned on my chest I admit that I did get a bit misty eyed. For me that was a dream come true and all the work that came with it was more than worth it for me.

Response by LTC John Czarnecki made Aug 21 at 2014 10:04 AM

LTC John Czarnecki — Thu, 21 Aug 2014 10:04:47 -0400

The Distinguished Rifleman Badge

Solid 10K Gold (although now they're plated... boo...)

"For preeminent marksmanship in National competition" while shooting for the USAMU in Service Rifle (M-14)

The only badges that are awarded less frequently are the Tomb Badge, and the Astronaut Badge.

I've had more than one CSM tell me that it wasn't an authorized decoration... LOL I always had a good smeck at that.

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Aug 21 at 2014 4:32 PM

Cpl Peter Martuneac — Thu, 21 Aug 2014 16:32:13 -0400

My NAM with a V. Awarded for actions under fire on my first pump to Afghanistan.

Response by SGT Andrew Harriman made Aug 22 at 2014 1:53 AM

SGT Andrew Harriman — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 01:53:38 -0400

My Silver Star, my Bronze Star w/V, my ARCOM w/V, my PH, and my CMB. Combined they make me one of the most decorated medics from the two wars and in the history of the 82nd Airborne. I could never have dreamed of having such an honor bestowed upon me.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2014 12:21 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 12:21:31 -0400

The John Henry Balch Award I recieved last year 2013 while stationed with 2nd MAR DIV, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines OHH-RAHH!

Response by SFC William "Bill" Moore made Aug 22 at 2014 12:35 PM

SFC William "Bill" Moore — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 12:35:46 -0400

Not sure if this counts, but my proudest moment was when my 6 year old Son pinned my Crab (EOD badge) on my chest. The little bugger really sunk it into my chest, too!!

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 22 at 2014 5:05 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 17:05:57 -0400

Can anyone share a story about this coveted badge? I want to send them a message. RESPECT!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2014 10:45 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 22:45:19 -0400

SFC Mark Merino I got recognition for running the CFC campaign and getting 1,335% of our goal. Col Private RallyPoint Member SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL

Response by SGT Suraj Dave made Aug 23 at 2014 2:21 AM

SGT Suraj Dave — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 02:21:07 -0400

Combat Medical Badge (OEF XI)
Hero Of the Battle (OEF XIII)

Response by SGT Danilo DiRico made Aug 23 at 2014 6:57 PM

SGT Danilo DiRico — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 18:57:21 -0400

LT you do know that one of the badest and best CSM' came out of Red Springs NC and he was not only a Airborne Ranger, Master Rated Jump Master, Audy Murphy Member, EIB, CIB, Master Halo but a motivational speaker. yup CSM Earl Rice was in 2nd BDE 82nd ABN Div and HHC 82nd ABN Div. You have and need to attend one of his speeches he gives at 18th ABN Corp HQ, will make you a better officer and an even better RANGER> AATW, RLTW

Response by SGT Danilo DiRico made Aug 23 at 2014 6:59 PM

SGT Danilo DiRico — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 18:59:41 -0400

Master Rated JM and EFMB for those only a few have earned and are hard to earn. JM school was one heck of a school harder than RIP and Ranger School. And then My Associates Degrees in Applied Sciences.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made Aug 23 at 2014 7:01 PM

SPC Charles Brown — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 19:01:48 -0400

All of my Honorable Discharges are what I am proudest of. They may not be considered as awards but they were earned by successfully completing enlistments, which mean more that the medals and other awards I gained while in the Army.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 8:35 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 20:35:04 -0400

For my civilian awards, I'd say it was my Eagle Scout award. It symbolizes everything that I learned in scouting and was able to teach to others, what I learned really helped at the beginning of my Army career.

For my military career, I have two and neither one of them were actual medals. The first one, I went to WLC when I had less than 18 months in the Army. I had graduated from AIT five months prior. But while there, my squad took a vote on who was the one the developed the most, who did an overall really good job and expected more good things to come from. My award was Gerber multitool, and not the kind that they issue. It had a few other things on it, but I still have it and it's served me well.
The second award is a III Corps t-shirt. While on convoy in Iraq, the PL and the OPs NCO tried cutting corners for time by combining what should have been three separate missions because we didn't have the resources to do the job all at once. Despite numerous objections from me and from a couple other TCs, many of our saftey SOPs were ignored, my CASEVAC and battle space vehicle I was in was completely overloaded as well as all the other VICs. We had an NTV that was also filled to the gills and compromised up armor. We were struck by an IED and our command froze, so after waiting for direction, I took over to find out which vics were up and to see if our gunners were ok. Our lead gunner wound up with a pretty bad concussion and suffered some whiplash from the sudden jerking of the VIC. It didn't rate for a CMB, but the BN CSM gave me a coin and that shirt. I can wear that shirt, so I take that as my award for doing my job.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 9:22 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 21:22:44 -0400

SFC Mark Merino CPT Richard Riley My best award is the gift of life and a God who loves me. SPC Charles Brown SSG V. Michelle Woods

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2014 9:24 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 21:24:41 -0400

My Nursing Diploma / RN Credential . . . opened many previously closed doors . . .

Response by PO3 Christopher Mcdonald made Aug 24 at 2014 10:06 AM

PO3 Christopher Mcdonald — Sun, 24 Aug 2014 10:06:52 -0400

Mine was my volunteer services medal. I was awarded it for my work with autism and the families affected by it. My family was blessed with a little autistic boy and it reminds me of the joy it brought me to do so.

Response by SSG Keven Lahde made Aug 24 at 2014 12:21 PM

SSG Keven Lahde — Sun, 24 Aug 2014 12:21:22 -0400

I also received an Air Force Achievement Medal. We had a Joint Operation with the Air Force and they gave all Army Air Force awards and Air Force Army awards. I thought that was pretty cool. And I am authorized to wear it. Even though us National Guard folks hardly ever get to wear our Class A's/ASU.

Response by GySgt William Hardy made Aug 24 at 2014 6:29 PM

GySgt William Hardy — Sun, 24 Aug 2014 18:29:45 -0400

Ended up with a bunch of ribbons and medals, but the one I am most proud of is my National Defense Service Medal with 2 stars. It indicates that I have served our country over a long period of time and it was presented to me 3 times, once for Vietnam, once for Desert Storm, and once for the War on Terror. I did a tour in Nam in 1969-70. My Guard unit was activated for Desert Storm but it was over before we could even pack our equipment. I was activated and did a year at Camp Taji, Iraq in 2006-07.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2014 7:39 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 07:39:45 -0400

Anything my oldest daughter draws for me.. Not even my combat awards or my EFMB have as high a place in my heart as knowing my family loves me. Although they are nice reminders from time to time that I am capable of overcoming adversity.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2014 10:55 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 10:55:19 -0400

My first AAM. Got it as a PFC for volunteering to be the CLS on call during Operation Bright Star back in 2005. Crazy hours but I loved it....plus I got a decent view of the Med. sunrise when shift was almost over.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2014 11:05 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 11:05:39 -0400

The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge. Technically an award. It represents not only the hardest school I have completed, but it also represents a community of people that cannot be equaled anywhere else. It represents generations or sacrifice, comeradierie, expertise, ingenuity, bravery, and most of all a degree of necessary wonderful insanity.
You don't find people like EOD techs often, and they usually always leave a lasting impression.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Aug 25 at 2014 11:16 AM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 11:16:42 -0400

I like them all but I would say that I think being the Paul Bryant Officer of the Year Award winner for Central US was pretty cool. As far as appearance I just love the look of my Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. As far as the most exciting interesting one is my JMUC for Surviving Mt Pinatubo. I can tell you from personal experience being any closer to a major volcanic eruption than 64 miles is too close (I was at 18 miles).

Response by SGT Chris Birkinbine made Aug 25 at 2014 11:54 AM

SGT Chris Birkinbine — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 11:54:03 -0400

Not so sure it is an award per say, but I am pretty proud of my discharge certificate. It represented completing the first goal in my steps to doing what I wanted to do in life.

Response by SPC Michael Turner made Aug 25 at 2014 1:49 PM

SPC Michael Turner — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 13:49:33 -0400

My EOD badge.

Response by MSgt Roger Lalik made Aug 25 at 2014 6:56 PM

MSgt Roger Lalik — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 18:56:14 -0400

My National Defense Medal earned in 1967. I have others. Up to the Navy Commendation. But the NDM is what I'm most proud of. I love my country even more fervently now. If the Corps had a place for old, fat and ugly guys. This Master Sergeant would be there. I love my country and I love my Corps.

It's a personal thing and if you haven't been there and done that. You'll never understand.

Response by TSgt Brian Herman made Aug 25 at 2014 7:04 PM

TSgt Brian Herman — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 19:04:00 -0400

I was fortunate in my active duty and guard career to earn several awards. Sure, some were "participation" awards but not all.
My Joint Service Commendation while I was in Africa, is pretty important to me, as well as my Navy Marksmanship award. That I can't wear.My dad got the Army marksmanship medal, when he was on active duty, and I always wanted to get one too. The AF wouldn't let my fire very often, and sadly I usually was a prescription behind. The last three times I fired with the ANG, I missed it by one, and then two rounds. So the Navy ribbon was kind of sweet to me!
If you read the AF guidance it's written almost with my name on it. Something to the affect that 'USAF ANG troops can't wear a Navy marksmanship ribbon earned while deployed to HOA, Brian'... This is the ribbon rack in my shadow box. However, I was awarded a couple of other awards for longevity of service, after I was separated. So, even after I retired, my rack STILL needs to be updated. AGAIN. Grr.
Lots of previously mentioned awards, that I can't even get my head around. Thanks to all of you for your service.

Response by SGT Jeffrey Denning made Aug 25 at 2014 8:46 PM

SGT Jeffrey Denning — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 20:46:48 -0400

CIB (Grenada haters stand down)

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2014 8:58 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 20:58:51 -0400

A plank with a kbar i got from my first sergeant after Iraq. I don't care about ribbons and medals.

Response by SGT Pete Quinnell made Aug 25 at 2014 9:37 PM

SGT Pete Quinnell — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 21:37:51 -0400

ALL AMERICAN VFW DEPT.COMMANDER FOR WYOMING 1998-1999

Response by SGT Samuel Frangel made Aug 25 at 2014 10:48 PM

SGT Samuel Frangel — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 22:48:18 -0400

Forgoing the birth certificates of my children Expert Infantry Badge, second would be my French Commando Badge.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2014 10:58 PM

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 22:58:31 -0400

Combat Action Ribbon, it symbolizes a very important time in my life

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2014 11:39 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 23:39:04 -0400

I'm pretty proud of becoming the first doctor or chiropractic in the family, good conduct ribbons, graduating from ARC, amphibious reconnaissance course and RANGER school. My honorable discharge says a lot as well. So it really isn't the rack on my chest or the badges, but I am proud to be of just .001% of the population that raised their right hand and picked up a rifle and volunteered.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 11:16 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 26 Aug 2014 11:16:01 -0400

My proudest award is the wings that was pinned on my BDUs after jump school. You see I am a 4th generation paratrooper and from my great grand dad in the WWII OSS we all were presented with his original clutch back wings.

My grand father that was a Airforce PJ and my father a 18E pinned them on me. That is the one award I hold dear and if the day comes that my son decides to become airborne I would be proud to pin them on him.

Response by SGT David Spearel made Aug 26 at 2014 11:41 AM

SGT David Spearel — Tue, 26 Aug 2014 11:41:18 -0400

My Basic Airborne Wings. Because I was the Distinguished Honor Graduate of 28-78 representing the enlisted of one of the largest classes and the largest class at the time to go through. It was hot, dirty and a very physically demanding course at Ft. Benning and I was in one of the classes fortunate to drop from the 250' free tower.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2014 11:58 AM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 26 Aug 2014 11:58:30 -0400

I received two Humanitarian Service Medals over twenty years. One was for victims of a tornado in Key West in 1970's and one for digging out Rhode Island from the blizzard of 1978. I was not involved with combat in either case but helping my fellow Americans get their lives back in order.

Response by MSgt James Mitchell made Aug 26 at 2014 1:18 PM

MSgt James Mitchell — Tue, 26 Aug 2014 13:18:40 -0400

Air Force Meritorious Service Medal (MSM).

Response by SSG John Bacon made Aug 26 at 2014 4:45 PM

SSG John Bacon — Tue, 26 Aug 2014 16:45:26 -0400

my MSM for traveling as a one man RPAT/retrograde equipment finder moving from FOB to FOB in November and December 2011 Iraq. It was hard work but we got all our equipment turned into Kuwait on time with no loss. Hurt my body though carrying all my gear with me.

Response by SPC David S. made Aug 26 at 2014 11:34 PM

SPC David S. — Tue, 26 Aug 2014 23:34:43 -0400

I guess it would be the Cav Scout tab that I never got. I never did it for a tab I did it because it was the MOS that I envisioned as the Army. Jumping out of whirlybirds, calling in fire missions, blowing stuff up, and qualifying on everything from a spud gun to a 155 mike mike.

Response by MSG Gene Potocki made Aug 30 at 2014 1:31 AM

MSG Gene Potocki — Sat, 30 Aug 2014 01:31:11 -0400

3rd Ranger Bn Scroll for Combat Service and combat star for the Parachutist Badge

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2014 12:17 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 01 Sep 2014 00:17:09 -0400

For me it has to be no medal or anything like that. It was when I was coming home from Afghanistan and one of the young soldiers I was with told me " see you always putting others before myself made him want to be a better soldier". That has stuck with me more than any medal I could be awarded. Influencing a soldier so that they want to do better means a lot to me.

Response by SSG John Erny made Oct 3 at 2014 2:25 PM

SSG John Erny — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 14:25:47 -0400

The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal from Operation Just cause. The command made a combat platoon out of Riggers, Engineers, ADA, and Cooks. The 20 MM vulcan may have helped just a little.

http://www.history.army.mil/documents/panama/JCIT/JCIT77.htm Search for composite platoon

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

DR. WRIGHT: O.K., this is an Operation JUST CAUSE interview being conducted on 29 May 1990, in the Headquarters of the Third Battalion 504th Infantry at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. The interviewing official is Dr. Robert K. Wright, Jr., the XVIII Airborne Corps historian. And sir, if I could get you to start off with giving me your full name, rank and serial number?

Response by SSG Maurice P. made Oct 4 at 2014 1:07 AM

SSG Maurice P. — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 01:07:26 -0400

I CAME IN 3RD PLACE IN A WEIGHT LIFTING COMPETITION IN 1966 I WAS BARELY 15...

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Oct 4 at 2014 9:19 AM

MSG Brad Sand — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 09:19:08 -0400

A walnut engraved deskplate that one of my co-workers got me when I made Eight. He was so shocked and disgusted that no one else was doing anything for my pending PCS that he went out on his own and got me something.

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Oct 4 at 2014 10:43 AM

SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 10:43:07 -0400

SFC Mark Merino,

A "yellow post it note" from my Commander in Iraq which stated "this is some great work."

SFC Joseph M. Finck USA (Ret)

Response by SPC David Shaffer made Oct 4 at 2014 2:06 PM

SPC David Shaffer — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 14:06:16 -0400

The award i'm most proud of is the coffee cup my four children got me this last father's day. It reads "Greatest Dad In The World" It even came with a hand written Certificate of Achievement from the kids stating why I am the greatest Dad. Priceless.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 4 at 2014 7:39 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 19:39:50 -0400

It would have to be my HSM for operation green mountain spirit, after hurricane Irene messed up the north east. It meant the most to me because I ended up rebuilding my home town and the towns surrounding it in Vermont with my national guard unit.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 4 at 2014 9:27 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 21:27:17 -0400

In the civy world I recieved a life saving medal as police officer. That was my very proud moment. My military ones all have meaning to me. But proudest moment in life was the birth of my children.

Response by SSgt Randy Saulsberry made Oct 4 at 2014 11:33 PM

SSgt Randy Saulsberry — Sat, 04 Oct 2014 23:33:18 -0400

This was the greatest thing that i have earned in the Marine Corps

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 5 at 2014 12:00 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 05 Oct 2014 12:00:30 -0400

3 joint service commendation medals and.achievement, because most members of the army don't know what they are lol.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 7 at 2014 11:06 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 11:06:27 -0400

My first Navy And Marine Corps Achievement Medal that I received a few days ago. Easily my proudest because I've only been in for three years and haven't been presented anything else before. Although I can't say I'm not proud of my GWOT and my Expert Marksmanship ribbon/Expert Pistol Shot medal.

Response by 1SG Frank Boynton made Oct 7 at 2014 4:09 PM

1SG Frank Boynton — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 16:09:57 -0400

You know that's a question I seldom discuss, but find the answer has changed with time. During active duty I would have said the Bronze Star w/V device for actions in Granada. But now looking back on my military career and over 23 years after retirement and almost 40 years after earning it, I would have to say the Humanitarian Service Award I received for Operation Baby Lift (1975), as part of the security team at Ft. Lewis, Washington.

Response by LCpl Rick Ponton made Oct 7 at 2014 5:08 PM

LCpl Rick Ponton — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 17:08:18 -0400

A MERITORIOUS MAST WRITTEN BY THE COLNEL ABOUT MY HARD WORK AND MY MOS I HAVE THAT PIECE OF PAPER SOME WHERE AND IF I FIND IT I CAN WRITE IT DOWN

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 7 at 2014 5:29 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 17:29:17 -0400

1. My Certificate of Baptism from my Pastor.

2. Everything else.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 7 at 2014 10:12 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 22:12:51 -0400

Not an award but very meaningful while walking on the beach in SC with my wife a gentleman came up to us and thanked me and told my wife I was a hero and that I rescued him . I do not remember rescuing him but did do a lot of search and rescue while stationed on SC.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2014 7:12 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 07:12:59 -0400

From July 2008 to July 2009, I packed up and shipped off to Joint Base Balad, Iraq. I was part of a very small unit; we were a Tailored Logistics Element (TLE). That meant that the element that we went to support said, “We want this, this, this and this MOS. We want 2 of these, 10 of these, 5 of these, 1 of these, etc.” I have never before been a part of something as unique as that, at least, as far as the military goes. There were only about 50 of us, randomly selected. I got the spot because the guy who was originally selected decided that he didn’t want to go. I got “involuntarily mobilized to deploy” orders. I was transferred out of my unit to another and that was that.
That deployment was practically my best 355 days in uniform. We worked for and supported Special Operations units, I’ll be able to tell you more in 2041, at least that’s what the Non-Disclosure Agreement says.
I was nervous to go, not because it was Iraq or war or anything like that; it was because I was selected to go in my Secondary MOS which I literally had not done in 7 years. It was as they say riding a bike is like, you don’t’ forget, and apparently I can still do that MOS in my sleep. It didn’t take me long to get spun up on it and to start rolling.
I had a great time. I met fascinating people. I got to know them and who they were and what they stood for, and still do stand for. I met some of the best Soldiers in the Army, and I got the opportunity to be the shadow for the pointy tip of the spear for a minute. I met some awesome Airmen, Marines and Sailors too, pointy tippers also. Every unit I’ve been to has been different, a different type of unit, Support Battalion, MP Detachment, Aviation Squadron, etc. I enjoy learning how different part of the Army work and how each part fits into the puzzle as a whole, learning the differences and how they fight or support the fight.
The TLE was the apex. I feel sorry for the Soldiers in my unit who had that as their first deployment, because how can Big Army top that? Or even better, how can the Reserves Big Army top that? We had some lower enlisted Soldiers as well, and if they go on subsequent deployments and expect it to be like or similar to the TLE deployment, they will be sadly, sadly disappointed.
ON my deployment I worked my butt off. I worked hard. I improved the processes for some things. I reduced unnecessary inventory. I cleaned up the area that I was responsible. I identified some things that needed it. I got rid of outdated items. I rotated stock. I made good relationships with other units that were supporting us so that my pointy tippers never had to do without. It was long work, and when our relief came, it was a one for one swap deal. Same TLE guidelines, my replacement had a hernia and he was coming, he would just be coming late. And could I stay, extend until he got here. Well, I teach high school, and I thought if I left with the rest of everyone else, I wouldn’t have a paycheck after I finished demobbing, so of course I can stay an extra 90 days. I stayed and worked the follow on unit for a while, they were pretty cool too. So then it was time to go home. My unit had put me in for a DMSM, and that got downgraded to an ARCOM, thanks! So I get home, separately and demob and go on about my business. A couple of months later, I got an email out of the blue asking for my mailing address. I had no clue who it was from, but I knew the email suffix was an SF address. I didn’t anything about it at all. I replied and promptly forgot about it. Several weeks later, I opened the mail box to a package from Ft. Bragg. When I got inside and opened it up, there was a Bronze Star. No 638, no puffy green awards folder, no letter, no note, no nothing, just the award certificate. I was stunned. I was humbled that someone (no 638, I don’t know who) thought that I worked long enough and hard enough to earn that award. That’s by far my favorite award because every time I see it, I think of the almost year (355 days) I spent working with some truly great people.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2014 7:44 AM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 07:44:46 -0400

Not exactly an award, but I won 82d Airborne Division Trooper of the Month in April 1977. It really was an intense competition - at company, battalion, brigade, and division. I was thrilled! And I keep the Iron Mike trophy I was awarded for being the Trooper of the Month on my desk at work. It's a great conversation starter, and it's older than some of my colleagues!

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Oct 15 at 2014 8:00 AM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 08:00:54 -0400

Military wise: Winning the MAJCOM level Information Dominance Award and competing at Air Force level. Being Coined by SECDEF, CJSC, SEA of the NSA, CSAF, and the Commander of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Civilian: Winning 3 Different Awards from AFCEA International. Distinguished Young AFCEAN, Emerging Leader and Special Award for Merit in Education.

Personal: Marriage and my children.

Response by CW2 Paul Beiss made Oct 15 at 2014 8:34 AM

CW2 Paul Beiss — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 08:34:43 -0400

Being inducted into the Order of St Michael. I was surprised to receive this one, and I don't know how to say this better, but this one I feel I was the most deserving of. All the BSMs, MSMs, ARCOMS and AAMs just felt like freebies.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2014 8:39 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 08:39:42 -0400

It's two that I'm proud of.

A.My CMB that was presented to me by a man I very much respect.

B. My Gold Spurs, not a lot of 35S types around here with those.

Response by SFC Melker Johansson made Oct 15 at 2014 1:10 PM

SFC Melker Johansson — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 13:10:19 -0400

"2014 Best Dad Ever"

Response by SFC Boots Attaway made Oct 15 at 2014 1:52 PM

SFC Boots Attaway — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 13:52:18 -0400

I am prouder of my EIB than anything else that I have earned. When I earned mine it was one week of training and one solid week of testing. Out of the 121 in the Bn that went out for it 21 of us earned it. One man I was hoping that would get it was Spc Charles Daughters, Last day he did the 12 miler in 2hr and a few minutes but he got his last NOGO on individual weapons.

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Oct 15 at 2014 3:10 PM

SGT Michael Glenn — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 15:10:55 -0400

I was fire guard on the DMZ for a patrol, was in just boots, bdu bottoms and t shirt, was horsing around with our SGT who was cool as all get out and got cornered by the BNCDR coming into the tent.I was covered in soot from the burning barrel and tried to hide but he saw me and called me forward, asked if I was part of the patrol which I answered no. He asked what I was doing in the tent then and I told him I was the fire guard and he said I was then part of the patrol and wanted to know if I knew the patrol ( you had to memorize every azimuth, every degree, every amount of paces and every brevity code) I knew nothing as I thought ...Ehhhh Im fire guard dont need to. Our E-5 positioned himself behind the BNCDR and began mouthing every answer to me and would freeze up when the BNCDR looked at him, sometimes I couldnt clearly make out what he was saying and just guessed which made it very comical at the answers I gave. I had the broom in my hand like a weapon and he asked if that was my weapon and I said yes, he asked me the max effective range of my "weapon" and I told him as far as I could throw it !!! he asked me if my "weapon" had a serial number and I blurted yes, the E-5 almost did a face plant on the spot! I was asked what the serial number was and I blurted out my M16 SN, and the BNCDR asked if I could present arms with out killing him which I did, he ripped that broom out of my hands with such force I went with it and had to stagger back to my original position. he all but caved my chest in giving it back to me and turned to our E-6 who had came into the tent mid way and told him to get everyone out of the tent. I was heading for the door like no bodies business when a loud and vigorous " OHHHH NOOOOO Not you Glenn !!! a lot of snickering went out the door as I went back, The E-6 was told to go get our entire company and off he went, then the BNCDR changed his mind and sent the E-5 to get the entire BN...STAT!!! when it formed I was told to stay in the tent until called which I did, he gave a speech about seriousness of our mission and how some people dont take it that serious or some take it too serious and then called me out by saying " CMON out Glenn, dont march, dont double time just b-bop like you would out on the block. I dont know what you do in your company so just be -bop". If looks could kill I was dead by my CO ,Xo, 1SG and all the way down the chain, everyone thought I was done !!! what happened next floored me!! he went on to say that this particular inspection was the best and funniest he had ever experienced and that too many take what we did too serious, turned..saluted me and presented me with BN coin !!! Just before dismissing the formation he made it perfectly clear that I was not to feel any repercussions for my actions. so I would say that coin holds dearest to my heart!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2014 7:15 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 07:15:00 -0400

My first BSM back in OIF III is the award I'm most proud of!. I was the junior SSG in my BTRY, and my Commander recommended me because like my PSG told me "my consistency and always assuming the missions, duties, or tasks nobody wanted" I know that in many instances our Awards System is broken; but for me I saw how it can work properly IOT recognize those that exceed the standard while performing in conditions and positions above their current level of experience or grade of responsibility.

Response by Maj Tony Lucas made Oct 16 at 2014 8:19 PM

Maj Tony Lucas — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 20:19:37 -0400

Getting DG in my commissioning class. I was a 30 year old mustang (prior enlisted) in a class of mostly 20-somethings. I made a lot of friends, learned a lot and shared a lot. Getting DG required votes from my colleagues as well as good academics/scores - very rewarding.

Got a lot of awards in my military career (NCO/Qtr, ALO/Year etc) and in my civilian career (Administrator/year etc) but DG in my commissioning class really tops them all...

Response by 1SG Jeffrey Bergeron made Oct 16 at 2014 10:22 PM

1SG Jeffrey Bergeron — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 22:22:20 -0400

Getting the ARCOM for TOP Gun in the BN and having the BN Commander tell the crew "we know who won the Engineer BDE Top Gun." Because BDE gave the Top Gun award to a different battalion.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2014 11:09 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 23:09:59 -0400

For me, it would be the National Defense Service Medal. It was the blank check that I gave, to Uncle Sam, that authorized payment of my life in service to my country in a time of war.

Nothing I ever earned before or since demonstrated more, my love for this country of ours.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Oct 16 at 2014 11:48 PM

Sgt Packy Flickinger — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 23:48:14 -0400

The title of father followed by the Eagle Globe and anchor.

Response by SFC Thomas Cole made Oct 17 at 2014 5:28 PM

SFC Thomas Cole — Fri, 17 Oct 2014 17:28:41 -0400

Armed forces Expeditionary Medal for Haiti. My first real world deployment with bad guys.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2014 7:44 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 17 Oct 2014 19:44:14 -0400

My acceptance letters to the University of Washington School of Medicine's PA program, and to Idaho State University's PA program. I finished my Bachelors on Active Duty taking a combo of night, weekend, and online courses, along with CLEP tests. After graduation, I decided to take my medical career further, and apply to Masters level PA programs. I was stationed in Korea, so I had to go to a Korean university to take the GRE, assemble my packet overseas, then rush leave through my CoC so I could fly to Seattle for interviews. Somehow it all worked, and I was accepted to PA school while still on active duty. Now that I have graduated PA school I am coming back into the National Guard as a Direct-Commissioned Officer. E-5 one month, 0-2E the next. It's surreal!

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2014 2:55 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 18 Oct 2014 14:55:41 -0400

While not an award, I think my submarine Qualification Dolphins are far and away my greatest accomplishment. That was 9 months of more mental stress than I have ever been through in my life. They day I had my fish pinned on me is a day I still think about and smile proudly. 03 October 2008 will forever be a great day for me.

Response by PO2 Rocky Kleeger made Oct 18 at 2014 5:23 PM

PO2 Rocky Kleeger — Sat, 18 Oct 2014 17:23:51 -0400

Bronze Star for being stupid. On the other hand, I have several GC's proving I'm good at not getting caught...

Response by SPC Paul Prevost made Oct 19 at 2014 1:11 PM

SPC Paul Prevost — Sun, 19 Oct 2014 13:11:06 -0400

my most treasured military award is my combat infantry badge. my most treasured lifetime award is my daughter Liberty.

Response by SPC(P) Geoffrey Fansher made Oct 19 at 2014 6:35 PM

SPC(P) Geoffrey Fansher — Sun, 19 Oct 2014 18:35:29 -0400

The title of "Father"...not an award but, it's what I'm most proud of. To know that I can have an impact on my two boys and prepare them to become the men that God put them here to be....that's priceless. Don't get me wrong, I'm very proud of my service, I'm just more proud of my purpose...my boys!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 19 at 2014 7:42 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 19 Oct 2014 19:42:54 -0400

My first one (AAM). the reason for that was being rewarded for your hard work and my leadership showed me that hard work pays off

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Oct 19 at 2014 7:57 PM

SPC(P) Jay Heenan — Sun, 19 Oct 2014 19:57:13 -0400

Okay, this may sound dumb, but I am really proud of my combat patch. Because I am in a non-combat MOS and my MOS has a TO&E and TDA side, the only way I was going to get one was if I volunteered. I got lucky and was attached to a reserve unit. Worked in an E-6 slot the whole year and experienced almost everything that one can experience during a deployment. I enjoyed some of my time and hated other times.

Response by MSG Reid Stone made Oct 20 at 2014 7:27 PM

MSG Reid Stone — Mon, 20 Oct 2014 19:27:54 -0400

National Defense Service Medal with two bronze stars. Service from May 1974 to March 2014 with 4 yrs active duty, 36 yrs Reserve time to include 46 months of MOB time. And the Meritorious Service Medal received in December 2000 when I was promoted to MSG. Came as total surprise as prior to that the only time reservists seemed to get the MSM was at their retirement. Did receive another this yr when I retired!

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 11:45 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 11:45:53 -0400

Aside from my marriage cert., I have two letters from two different admirals. I working my butt off to get those.

Response by CPO Tim Dickey made Oct 26 at 2014 7:47 AM

CPO Tim Dickey — Sun, 26 Oct 2014 07:47:03 -0400

The JSAM I received from Operation Unified Response. HA/DR really sits well with me and when the military can relieve pain and suffering, it is a good day.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2014 11:16 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Oct 2014 11:16:28 -0400

I cant really pick one but two come to mind, ARCOM for my first deployment to Afgahnistan because i was one of 19 soldiers deployed from Korea and redeployed back to Korea (medevac PLT deployment in support of 5-101 CAB in RC-S) and AAM from the same unit for participating in the ROK ship Choenan recovery mission, we spent 22 days on the ROK ship Dokdo and 10 on the island of Pyeong Ya Do (may have spelled that wrong). Not alot of people can make either of those claims, and even fewer can make both.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2014 1:58 PM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Oct 2014 13:58:48 -0400

My "Best dad ever" award, awarded to me this fathers day by my son and daughter, 5 and 1, respectively. I hope to keep earning it and hopefully get the "lifetime achievement" award in the same category at some point in time. :) A good runner up is a certificate of appreciation I was given for some work I did in getting some much needed apple trees for a community apple orchard in the Tacoma area. Its a great feeling to be able to say you helped a community out in a lasting way.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Oct 26 at 2014 4:40 PM

Capt Richard I P. — Sun, 26 Oct 2014 16:40:15 -0400

The Few, the Proud.

Response by MSG Greg Kelly made Oct 26 at 2014 4:42 PM

MSG Greg Kelly — Sun, 26 Oct 2014 16:42:01 -0400

Jungle Expert Course it was one of those strange courses that soldiers whispered about but didn't really understand. But the patch worn on the blouse pocket was coveted for soldiers in the southeast. The course was conducted at Ft. Sherman Republic of Panama and was demanding but the worst part was being in triple canopy jungle. The jungle had a strange way of messing with your head some guys would just the course and go sit on the pipe line and wait for a helicopter. But the was closed before Panama was given back and the patch was stolen be some unit in the Texas area. So the patch was taken away naturally

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Oct 27 at 2014 10:31 AM

1SG Michael Blount — Mon, 27 Oct 2014 10:31:48 -0400

I can't say it's any of the medals I've received. I'm most proud of a plaque I received from 3d Recon, USMC in 2005 at the end of my tour in Fallujah. Between that and thhe citation accompanying my authorization to wear the Blue Diamond as my CSIB.

Knowing the Marines don't give out anything (mostly because they don't have it, and Recon even more so),I know I earned both -- the hard way.

l

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 13 at 2014 6:30 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Nov 2014 18:30:00 -0500

Outstanding Unit in Weather.. very select

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 13 at 2014 6:33 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Nov 2014 18:33:02 -0500

Navy Unit Commendation for Desert Storm. We dropped a lot of ordinance :)

Response by CMSgt Mark Lewis made Nov 13 at 2014 6:44 PM

CMSgt Mark Lewis — Thu, 13 Nov 2014 18:44:26 -0500

Meritorious Unit and Outstanding Unit Awards (823d RED HORSE Squadron). Because they recognize the exceptional efforts of the men and women in constructing airfields and facilities throughout the world during peacetime and war time. My job was to take care of the people so they could take care of the mission!

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Nov 13 at 2014 6:48 PM

CMSgt James Nolan — Thu, 13 Nov 2014 18:48:30 -0500

Aerial Achievement Medal. Cops very very very rarely get that award. It came from the Detainee Operations, where we moved the terrorists from Afghanistan to Gitmo. Dangerous Operations-not compared to the dangers of the ground pounders (God Bless every last one of you) but dangerous as we were a no-fooling target, and, we would under no circumstances be allowed to land anywhere but Gitmo. It is what it is. We all have our duties.

But that is one that I am very proud of.

And of course 2 USMC Good Conducts-because as previously stated, there were plenty of opportunities to jack those up......

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 13 at 2014 6:50 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Nov 2014 18:50:42 -0500

All of them!

No matter what, I feel I have earned them and someone at some point took time out of their schedule to do the write up and recommend me for them.

Response by CPL Rick Stasny made Nov 13 at 2014 6:53 PM

CPL Rick Stasny — Thu, 13 Nov 2014 18:53:27 -0500

It was a n AAM, I was awarded this for my participation in a Nuclear Weapons Technical Inspection with 100% no comments and no deficiencies. The evaluators really made you earn that.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 13 at 2014 9:25 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Nov 2014 21:25:09 -0500

I've gotten several "official" awards that I'm pretty proud of:

First, the FBI Certificate of Recognition signed by the Director of the FBI, which my wife calls my "the important award that says nothing." It came as a complete surprise from the Special Agent in Charge I worked with. I look on it fondly, and remember the operational aspects that got it, even though the details can't be spoken of.

My Missile Badge with Operations Designator, because being a Missileer means you had the most deadly weapons on Earth at your disposal and perfection was the standard. I also got the USAF Space Command Crewmember Excellence Award as a Missileer. You had to have five Highly Qualified evaluations to earn it, I racked up five HQs with no Errors to earn my patch.

The second JSAM I was awarded for lifesaving.

Response by SSG Jeffrey Spencer made Nov 13 at 2014 10:37 PM

SSG Jeffrey Spencer — Thu, 13 Nov 2014 22:37:49 -0500

The one I never received. I know what I did, the effect it had, and what it would've meant had it been awarded.

Response by PO3 Brendan "Smitty" Smith made Nov 14 at 2014 12:23 AM

PO3 Brendan "Smitty" Smith — Fri, 14 Nov 2014 00:23:05 -0500

My uniform. I know, not technically an award but, it is. It shows that you stepped up to defend this nation. That you had the courage to sacrifice your time, time with your family, and if necessary, your life. Why have you done this? So others can sleep safe at night because they know, we have the watch. So, what was I most proud of? More than any medal I earned? My uniform.

Response by 1SG Cameron M. Wesson made Dec 16 at 2014 11:52 AM

1SG Cameron M. Wesson — Tue, 16 Dec 2014 11:52:21 -0500

Well... there are three...

Military Award: Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB)... I was a new SGT and had only test once due to deployments in my first 5 years. I started out and immediately got two "No Go's" in the first hour... I immediately retested and received "gos" and then road the "picket" the all the way through... only 15 people in the BN (about 300ish testing) were awarded it that year.

Civilian Award: Army Civilian Meritorious Service Medal (Civ Equiv to the Leg of Merit)... I was awarded it for assuming Directorship of the IO proponent office when my COL, the Director, had a heart attack and stroke....which put him out for awhile. It was an extremely turbulent time and it was really the first time that I was complete surprised.

My dual Master or Arts Degrees.... for obvious reasons.

Response by CPT Endre Barath made Dec 17 at 2014 3:08 PM

CPT Endre Barath — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 15:08:16 -0500

What an interesting question. Those of you who saw combat I am sure have a different perspective than those of us who were in during a peace time serving our country. Either way awards are earned and to be proud of. Some are skill related others are not.

I am proud of all my awards and they were all team awards. I would not have gotten my Ranger Tab if my brothers would not have helped me get through the rough patches of the school...same for my Airborne wings even though it is an individual skill it was a team effort to get through. My Impact ARCOM during an exercise in Germany being the XO of a Mech Infantry Company I would not have earned if it was not for the support of the Food Service guys and the Mechanics that worked virtually without sleep for about two weeks to support the Unit I guess the only award that I can somewhat take credit for was my EIB based on my own merits !

Response by SGT Greg Gold made Dec 18 at 2014 6:12 PM

SGT Greg Gold — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 18:12:27 -0500

I have both rifle and pistol excellence in competition badges. You don't see too many of those.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2015 8:50 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Jan 2015 20:50:33 -0500

It's not an award, it's just the honor and responsibility that I have the opportunity to perform Military Funeral Honors for our fallen veterans and service members.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2015 10:05 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Jan 2015 22:05:30 -0500

My Juris Doctor

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2015 11:06 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Feb 2015 23:06:51 -0500

My Expert Field Medical Badge not because I did well on a series of tests, but because it reflects my pride of being part of a team of Army medical soldiers. I'm proud of those soldiers and it makes my day to know I'm a part of that brotherhood.

Response by SSG Stephen Tucker made Apr 9 at 2015 12:14 PM

SSG Stephen Tucker — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 12:14:59 -0400

I would honestly have to say that earning my Expert Field Medical Badge was a defining moment. I earned my in 1995 when the training and testing were hard to overcome. Plus, once you earned your EFMB, you were generally regarded as being the best of the best and it earned a lot of respect with the infantry fellows.

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Apr 15 at 2015 7:12 AM

GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 07:12:17 -0400

The one I got from my daughter several years ago ...

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Aug 1 at 2015 7:24 PM

Capt Jeff S. — Sat, 01 Aug 2015 19:24:38 -0400

Awards are overrated. I was the recipient of a few Navy Achievements and a Navy Commendation, but my greatest achievements didn't get me a reward, directly.

The Meritorious Mast I earned for volunteering to go help another Work Center tackle their high AWM (when I was a Cpl) and the standing ovation I got from Gen Wesley Clark and his staff for a brief I gave them on Guantanamo Bay (as COMNAVBASE N-2) were two of the most memorable and rewarding experiences I had while serving.

Response by 1SG Jeffrey Grice made Aug 2 at 2015 12:25 AM

1SG Jeffrey Grice — Sun, 02 Aug 2015 00:25:52 -0400

Wasn't an award, but while waiting in Kuwait to head back from deployment, our First Sergeant ended up staying behind to work an issue, as the senior NCO (newly promoted to MSG) I pulled the company together for a discussion about the importance of maintaining your ID card and how ridiculous and reckless it would be for someone to misplace it, and then promptly ate crow and admitted to losing mine.

After one of my Soldiers told me about the location where lost ID cards are collected (and where mine was turned into), I went back to my cot and someone had put 1SG rank on my pillow. Ended up being one of my best days in uniform as many of my Soldiers came to me and said they had never seen someone in leadership admit "failure" like that in a mass group setting.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Aug 3 at 2015 11:38 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Mon, 03 Aug 2015 23:38:07 -0400

The letter that the Commander of our post sent to me on my birthday.
He wished me a Happy Birthday from the Command; AND from the United States Army!
He also mentioned that he had seen all the hard work that I had put in as a Sports Director.
He was very thankful for it.

Response by SFC Joseph McCausland made Sep 10 at 2015 6:20 PM

SFC Joseph McCausland — Thu, 10 Sep 2015 18:20:51 -0400

I am most proud of an award given to me by my two grand daughters, declaring me "The Best "Grand Pop" In The Whole Wide World"

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2015 5:52 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 17:52:49 -0400

My CIB is the dearest thing to my heart. No other award, no matter what it is comes even close to this. For those that have truly earned it, you know exactly what I mean.

Response by SFC Jay Needham made Sep 17 at 2015 9:31 PM

SFC Jay Needham — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 21:31:02 -0400

My CIB

Response by PO2 Jeffrey Sheibels made Sep 18 at 2015 12:57 AM

PO2 Jeffrey Sheibels — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 00:57:51 -0400

I am most proud of my Coast Guard Achievement Medal. It was the last one I got before I got out. I was The BM2 on a Coast Guard Cutter. Responsible for 43 people that made up the Deck division. I did it all. I was in charge of the Helm/Lookout watch-standers and their qualifications. I was responsible for the small boat crews and their qualifications. I was involved in mission briefings, mission planning, shipboard evolutions, shipboard evaluations, performance reviews. Hell, you name it and I had a part in it. I did it all. I did all the Coast Guard missions at that time. I was the supply Petty Officer, the SAR Petty Officer, the Training Petty Officer, Repair Locker Investigator, Coxswain, QMOW, BMOW, deck supervisor, deck safety officer. I got beat out for SOQ by Doc(the only Coast Guard HS that I will ever call Doc) because he revived a migrant who had passed out due to a heat stroke. But he is a hell of a guy and I am happy to see him get it. But the Achievement Medal really sums up what I did in the Coast Guard. I was the best. I had the respect of everyone because the Commanding Officer flat out said he respects me and understands that I am very knowledgeable. I had Navy shipriders who were evaluating us say that I was the most knowledgable BM2 that they have come across in a long time. I knew my shit. I knew policy, and I knew procedures for all shipboard evolutions. I also never once had anyone who reported to me get hurt in my 10 years of service. It was the time where I really shined and showed what I was capable of.

The other award I am most proud of is my Humanitarian Service Medal that I got for being a part of the Katrina Relief Efforts while I was at an MSST, which I am a Plank-owner of.

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Sep 20 at 2015 11:08 AM

SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS — Sun, 20 Sep 2015 11:08:13 -0400

SFC Mark Merino Not truly an award, but it always will be for me. One morning in Iraq, I found a yellow sticky note from my commander on re-enlistments I handled with the local career counselor. Through persistence and daily meeting, I obtained a significant number of bonuses for my Soldiers. The note simply said "now this is some good work." I served as his 1SG for thirteen months and it was the most rewarding time in my career. That yellow sticky note is framed and hangs on my wall.

Response by SFC Stephen King made Sep 20 at 2015 11:08 AM

SFC Stephen King — Sun, 20 Sep 2015 11:08:46 -0400

Being a Dad

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 20 at 2015 11:17 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 Sep 2015 11:17:22 -0400

My daughter's birth certificate, Combat Action Badge and Big Red One/1st ID combat patch from OIF II. Also being Captain of my high school Academic Quiz Bowl team in my senior year (1986).

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 20 at 2015 11:40 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 Sep 2015 11:40:24 -0400

The military award that I hold in the highest regard would have to be my Combat Infantryman Badge CIB. Many are given away but I earned mine when I shot a Taliban member on 11SEP2011. That same badge that was blood pinned on me was the same badge I pinned on the coffin of a great Soldier SSG Heath Richard Sagan. It is a bitter sweet award that holds a proud moment of being an infantryman as well as the sad memory of losing a battle.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 20 at 2015 4:29 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 Sep 2015 16:29:47 -0400

My Expert Field Medical Badge. It gives me great pride to be part of an elite family of Army medics. It means more toe than any of my medals or ribbons!

Response by 1SG Klayton W. Hayes made Jul 4 at 2017 7:20 PM

1SG Klayton W. Hayes — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 19:20:21 -0400

My diploma signafying my graduation from The United States Army Sergeants Major Acadamy, First Sergeants Course 2-90. "Diamonds are Trump"

Response by 1SG Harold Piet made Jul 6 at 2017 3:03 PM

1SG Harold Piet — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 15:03:32 -0400

I made E-7 with jump wings and my highest award a GCM . I got a couple AAM and ARCOM as n E-7. I received an MSM when I retired, So based on that I feel that the MSM for leaving the service was my highest and most prestigious award. My proudest achievement is my children.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Oct 7 at 2017 8:09 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Sat, 07 Oct 2017 20:09:05 -0400

Perfect Attendance, means I got out alive

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2017 8:06 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Oct 2017 20:06:14 -0400

Eagle Scout...made me want to accomplish more goals in my life

Response by SFC William Fowle made Mar 16 at 2019 6:49 PM

SFC William Fowle — Sat, 16 Mar 2019 18:49:22 -0400

A Letter of Appreciation I received from the members of my gun crew. I was Sqd Ldr in 2/59 ADA, in 1st AD, in 1977.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Apr 23 at 2019 6:01 PM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Tue, 23 Apr 2019 18:01:12 -0400

One of the best awards I enjoyed was having my job as a 2d Chef when a lot of employees up and down the ladder were given letters telling them their services were no longer needed due to staff cut backs. Some got little notes allowing them to reapply at a later date if and when the situation improved.. and it applied anywhere in the nation.. I lost a few amenities.. I would still get uniforms as needed and if needed for early start stay over night . But I would have to claim these items taxable value as income. So that wasn’t too bad.. Chef jacket. $25, tx:
$1.50 .. Red wing safety shoes: tx $3 Chef trousers: $2... tx on basic rm $5... I could deal with that.. and I could just include a pic of receipts made out to me that paid when delivered and vetted by company CPA. Lunch was still covered..
part of my job was sampling and checking JR. Employee’s work.. so I ate a limited lunch.. if I ate.. I was allowed to take it home..

Response by FN Randy Bohlke made Jan 28 at 2020 1:30 PM

FN Randy Bohlke — Tue, 28 Jan 2020 13:30:19 -0500

Being a Plank Owner of the USS San Jacinto CG 56 is the high point of my life. Knowing I own a piece of a Warship that protects our Country is awesome in my opinion.

Response by CPT Robert Moriarity made Jan 4 at 2021 2:43 PM

CPT Robert Moriarity — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 14:43:08 -0500

I am a Retired CPT and I love that I have a Good Conduct medal and Enlisted Excellence medal among others.