Posted on Feb 17, 2026
Dale Dye says 'decoration inflation' turns medals into participation trophies
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Strong perspective here from retired Marine and Vietnam veteran Dale Dye on what he calls “decoration inflation” — the idea that too many routine ribbons and medals can dilute the meaning of true battlefield heroism.
It raises an honest question for all of us who have worn the uniform:
How many participation-type awards do you have on your rack… and do you think the system today still clearly distinguishes between showing up and truly extraordinary service?
Interested to hear perspectives across generations and branches.
It raises an honest question for all of us who have worn the uniform:
How many participation-type awards do you have on your rack… and do you think the system today still clearly distinguishes between showing up and truly extraordinary service?
Interested to hear perspectives across generations and branches.
Dale Dye says 'decoration inflation' turns medals into participation trophies
Posted from wearethemighty.com
Awards
Deployment
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Culture
Medals
Posted 24 h ago
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@ltc Kevin Sullivan this veteran had seen combat, as a Marine, in Vietnam and came home alive speaks volumes. Furthermore, he has been a professional consultant on Platoon, Private Ryan, movies I saw. They were realistic and accurate. He is a veteran who is calling the awarding of "lightweight" ribbons a disrespect to personnel who are leaders in their souls because they put it on the line.
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USMC 1968-1972. I would not call any of my medals or ribbons participation awards. I agree with Dale Dye.
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If you've been in for more than a minute, you have a participation trophy or maybe two. I've seen pictures of people who were in for a couple decades back when, and they had three or four ribbons. Senior folks, too. I get that it can be a boost to people, but it seems like everybody who's been in for a few years looks like a general. On a personal note, I would rather see the meaningless awards go away. My $.02 worth.
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PO3 Phyllis Maynard
CW3 Richard "Lee" Doty I agree. Should a highly decorated person be called upon, to man a critical position, we may be in deep quicksand, when the launch drops.
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